Gifts Aren’t Trophies—They’re Tools
Not for Show, But for Service
God didn’t give us gifts to separate us, but to join us together. MBW
Somewhere along the way, parts of the Church started treating spiritual gifts like merit badges. Prophecy? Gold star. Teaching? Step right up. Healing? VIP section. Tongues? Oooh… mysterious!
But God’s gifts were never meant to create a holy hierarchy. They’re not trophies to polish—they’re tools to serve.
“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” – 1 Corinthians 12:7
Gifts are grace in action—meant to strengthen the body, not elevate the ego.
From Entitlement to Empowerment
Here’s the truth: just because God gives something through you doesn’t mean it’s about you.
God entrusts us with gifts not as proof of spiritual rank, but as invitations to deeper humility and love.
Imagine someone receiving a shovel and thinking it means they’ve arrived—while the rest of us are waiting for them to dig.
Spiritual gifts are assignments, not awards.
The Body Isn’t a Ladder
Paul makes it clear—we’re a body, not a boardroom.
No role is more important, just different.
The hand doesn’t boast over the foot, and the eye doesn’t demand applause every time it blinks.
“The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you!’” – 1 Corinthians 12:21
When we honor one another’s gifts, we stop competing and start completing.
Reflection
In what ways have I allowed comparison or pride to influence my perception of spiritual gifts?
How do I personally define success in using the gifts God has given me?
What might it look like to use my gifts with more love, humility, and purpose this week?
Prayer
Father, thank You for the gifts You’ve given—not to divide, but to unite. Forgive me when I’ve seen them as status instead of service. Teach me to walk in humility, honor others, and use what You’ve given me to lift up the Body of Christ. Let love be the motive and unity the result. In Jesus’ name, amen.