6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. – Romans 12: 6-8
In the Christian life, we are never left hanging. For one, our God is faithful to the end, but two, He has given us His Spirit which gives us specific gifts. While this passage is highlighting a few spiritual gifts, the point I want to make is that the purpose of any gift is to be used for the benefit of others. As a matter of fact, any time God gives us a gift, whether it be spiritual, material, or physical, it is always given to be leveraged for the advantage of those around us.
Are you aware of your gifts? When it comes to sport, we typically think of our physical skills and talents, forgetting that God has blessed us in more ways than to only be a product on the field. Looking at the passage above, maybe you do have the gift of service or encouragement. Your time in sport is a perfect place to use those for the benefit of others. Some of you might have the gift of leadership or mercy. How would the culture of our locker rooms transform if the leaders were the ones serving and our words to one another were full of mercy rather than indifference?
During our games, we have the tendency to get caught up on our talent being displayed and winning at all costs. If we are playing poorly then everyone else is forgotten in the frustration. Actually, even when we play our best, we tend lose track of others in our success. This is not how Jesus calls us to live. In life, whether its a good day or bad, we are called to love God and love others. God has graciously given you numerous gifts, and if you are unsure of what they are, spend some time asking Him to reveal them. There is freedom and joy when we use what God has given us for its intended purpose. Consider Jesus. How did the Son of God use His gifts?
- Thank God for being a good and gracious giver.
- Ask God to reveal the gifts He has given you.
- Pray that you would use them for the benefit of others.
Pre-Game Playlist: