Providence 365, Week Six

Welcome to week six of Providence 365 as we reflect on our gifts. Our Bible verse is Romans 12:6
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;

What is a gift? It surely is more than a pretty package with a bow. One dictionary provides this definition:
1: a notable capacity, talent, or endowment
2: something voluntarily transferred by one person to another without compensation
3: the act, right, or power of giving

What is a gift? Think about Christmas-time; when you see a child open a gift on Christmas morning. The joy on their face as they discover what was hidden under the wrapping paper. Maybe it is a precious baby doll, a classic novel or a new video game. And then when they use that gift – what a smile it brings to the face of the giver, to know that the gift was perfect and that the child could not wait to play with it.

Our Father feels the same way. It is through His grace that we are given our gifts. Our gifts are not to be set aside on a shelf; we are to use them to their fullest. I can only imagine how pleased He is when we use the gifts He has given.

What are your gifts? Our gracious Father has blessed each one of us with gifts. His Grace is amazing! Mine will be different from yours – yet each gift is perfect for us. Through the years we discover these gifts and are given the opportunity to use them.

In the book of Romans continue reading verse 7 and 8. It expands on using our gifts. As I was reading these passages, I could not stop. I continued to read to the end of chapter 12 and I encourage you to do the same. (Powerful words on being a true Christian and how we treat one another.)

How are you using your gifts? Throughout life we may be led to or asked to do something that is outside of our comfort zone , something we may feel we are not ready to tackle. Remember that God does not call the equipped. He equips those that are called. Perhaps He has given you a gift that you have not yet unwrapped.

This week, reflect on the gifts He has given you. Your challenge is to create a layout which shares your gift(s). How do you use them? Who is blessed through your gifts? When did you realize it was a gift? I know it is hard to write about yourself - but give it a try. Perhaps someone will recognize a hidden gift of their own through your layout.

Here is some wordart to get you started.

Wishing you a joyous week. Wherever you are, I pray that you are safe, warm and dry.