Making A Connection

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“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same spirit. There are different kinds of service but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all man.”

1 Corinthians 12:4-6

By: Christian Jacob Ramon

I take pride in my talents. I say that with no inkling of arrogance. On the contrary, I mean this with all humility.

Maybe you’ve heard this before, or even tried pondering this notion at some point in your life: the grand idea of individuality. Even while bound together by faith, we still manage to retain singular and distinctive identities, “niches” so to speak. To take a more visual approach, try picturing the biblical metaphor of many different parts comprising one body; however small or insignificant you may think, every single one of us maintains an absolute and unique ability, a skill, a “spiritual gift.”

Kind of a neat term, isn’t it? Saying it aloud, as I like to do, always manages to heighten my sense of significance, as if I alone possess some superpower handpicked by my own Creator.

Truth is, I actually do. You actually do. The 6-year-old in me can’t help but relate this to the superheroes on the big screen, distinctive in their powers, unmistakable in their identities. But, at least in my case, these gifts don’t involve flying or punching through walls, and mercifully, don’t require colored spandex.

Take some of my friends for example:

John can coax a symphony out of practically any instrument with precision, ease, and grace, all reflective of his personality. Diego can skillfully conduct practically any marching band with an almost intimidating fortitude, but does it in such a way to encourage even the most insecure performer. Rachel can give life to a piece of paper, with tender charm and a humor as sharp as the pencil she sketches with.

But through the eyes of God, which of our traits truly matter if we merely CAN do something without glorifying God? What’s the point? Once we recognize who we are in our aptitude, or who we CAN be, where do we go from there? I think the reason there’s an “I” in Christ is because His omnipotency works through our given talents.

Next is application.

There is divine fulfillment in utilizing ourselves to our fullest potential for God, but how you can do so is left for you to discover. So, maybe you can play a concerto, or you can deliver some persuasive speeches. Maybe you have the gift of communication, the gift of influence. Bottom line is, you have the talent, but are you willing to USE that talent to fulfill its true purpose? If you are, now is the time to make it a form of worship. For you musicians, be sterling in your performance. Writers, put your pulse on a page. Be sincere in your endeavors, and wring your talents down to the very last drop, and draw forth every ounce of energy and commitment toward your Savior.

Do Him justice, and do it with a smile. Do what you love to the fullest potential. God will always provide opportunities for you to contribute in His name – you just have to choose them wisely. I can’t tell you how to go about living with, or better yet USING your spiritual gifts, because that’s not for me to decide. But for God’s sake, don’t waste them!

So in the spirit of our superheroes, here is what the 6-year-old in me has to say:             Use your powers for good, not evil.