Authentic Leaders Build Purpose
Define Your Purpose – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Romans 12:3-8

Key Verse: 1 Timothy 4:14

Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you.

The Apostle Paul told Timothy not to neglect his gift.  He understood how easy it is to lose focus and get pulled in a dozen directions.  Unfortunately, it is easy to neglect our gifts.  We must remember who has given us these gifts.  It is one thing if I neglect a gift a friend has given me, but when I neglect a gift God has given me, that is serious!

            Obviously our first task is to discover our gift(s).  This can be accomplished in several ways.  There are formal tests that can be taken to help discover the areas we are strong in.  These are not fool proof, but can be helpful.  Another tried and true way is trial and error.  We can try out different areas of ministry until we find one that clicks with us.  When we discover our area of giftedness, we’ll sense real fulfillment when doing it.

            Another element that we should add to discovering our gifts is the confirmation of the church.  This might come from those we are serving.  It might come from the leadership of the church.  The idea is to sense a true affirmation that this area is more than enjoyable, but effective among God’s people.  This is not as easy as we might think because God’s people tend to be nice, but too often insincere.  We must ask God for a spirit of discernment to gain a true sense of the sincere confirmation of our gifts.

Father, I want to be faithful to the gift you have given me.  Help me to see it and daily grow more effective in it.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.