Scripture Reading: Proverbs 17:8; 18:16
“A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.”(Proverbs 17:8)
There is really nothing that can compare with the beautiful sparkling diamond as it catches the light and reflects multi-coloured splendour. As you move it about it gives off brilliant rays of light.
It is a joy to turn it this way and that, and watch it gleam as it reflects the different lights in the room. It shoots out its brilliance in many directions.
So it is with the gifts which the Holy Spirit gives us. They are like brilliant lights which attract the attention of others through their ability to reflect the glory of God.
Our God-given gifts, when used rightly, will not only bless others, they will bring fulfillment into our own lives.
We are not really happy unless we give happiness to others. God wants each one of us to sparkle like gems so that the beauty of Jesus will be seen in us.
It is only as we release the gift of God within us that we can prosper. Through our gifts we can teach and instruct others. We can give wise counsel and guide the faltering feet. We can understand what is in the heart of others and help them to do the right thing when they are perplexed and confused.
Every gift that we have received from the Lord will be a blessing and joy to others, no matter how imperfect they are — just so long as we use them to the best of our ability.
But if we do not use these gifts, we will grieve the Holy Spirit, for we are like the woman who refuses to wear the diamond ring of betrothal which her beloved has given to her. Someone has said the Lord showed her that the Holy Spirit is our “engagement ring.” If that is true, then the diamonds in it are the Gifts of the Spirit.
Jesus said that the person who hides his talent will be punished, and his gift from God will be taken away from him and given to another (Matthew 25:28).
“A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.” (Proverbs 18:16)
Just like a precious gemstone attracts the attention of people, so a person who is gifted will always find open doors and opportunities to minister to others and use his gifts and talents.
That is why we must develop and perfect our gifts. Paul counseled the saints, “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness” (Romans 12:6-8).
As you perfect your gift through study and practice it will develop more and more. Your fame will go out throughout all the world and you will be brought before many people, small and great.
David sang and played his harp on the hills of Bethlehem. Even though his only audience was his sheep and the angels, he was faithful; and the day came when he was called to sing and play before King Saul. When the evil spirits heard him, they fled from Saul, leaving him in peace.
If God has given you a gift to sing, sing even if it is only to the sheep, or the cows, or to yourself. You never know who is listening and what opportunities you will be given.
Gems of Wisdom by Gwen Shaw
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