The Apostle Paul writes a little-known passage in 1 Corinthians that teaches us how to find God’s calling.
Turn to your Bible now and read 1 Corinthians 12:4-7.
It’s an easy 1, 2, 3 step process for knowing God’s will and walking in the adventure of His calling for our lives. That 3-step process is easy to follow:
One: Know Your Spiritual Gifts.
Two: Start Your Ministry.
Three: Depend on God for results.
Step One: Know your spiritual gifts!
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit (1 Corinthian 12:4, NASB1995).
The Spirit of God gives unique spiritual gifts. They could be natural talents enhanced by the power of the Spirit, but with many of us, the gifts are given when we become a believer.
The Spiritual gifts are listed in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, Ephesians 4, and 1 Peter 4.
Leadership and administration are two of the gifts mentioned, and they could be latent talents energized by God for greater impact. However, gifts like healing, speaking in tongues, and miracles would obviously be given supernaturally at new birth.
It’s important to know your spiritual gifts before you can take Step Two.
Step Two: Start your ministry!
And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord (1 Corinthians 12:5, NASB1995).
When we know our spiritual gift, then we can ask God for guidance in finding a ministry in which to use the gift. If we are a businessperson, we need a business; if a preacher, a pulpit; or if a teacher, a classroom.
Our ministry is the expression of our spiritual gifts. Once we know our spiritual gifts and our ministry, we serve on this narrow path.
Paul writes in 2 Timothy 4:5, “Fulfill your ministry!” Which means perseverance and praying for effectiveness.
Step Three: Depend on God for results!
There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons (1 Corinthians 12:6).
Gifts and ministries are given by God, but the ultimate effectiveness of our gifts depends on God’s grace. Many will teach, but few will have the impact of Timothy Keller, and many will help the poor, but few will reach the world like Mother Teresa.
Paul writes that we shouldn’t exceed the grace that He gives us (Romans 12:3). Yes, always pray for increased effectiveness, but also humbly receive His measure for our success.
Our calling contains gifts, ministry, and effectiveness. They are connected; one comes before the other. But let’s remember . . .
But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7).
Let’s serve one another!