| Good morning everyone, Our theme for this moth: “Sanctification” Our Bible verse for today: “Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10 (CSB) Our thought for today: “It will evolve over time” Yesterday we considered the story of John Newton and how God took him out of the isolated realm of a ship at sea, transformed him into a new man with gifts and abilities intended to benefit others, and then placed him in a church setting – in Christian community, for the rest of his days. We also learned that in varying ways, John Newton’s story is all our stories. God has plans for you. Maybe not in the same way or to the same degree that He did for John Newton but still, plans. As you grow spiritually God brings out in you and develops spiritual gifts, skills, and abilities, some of which you didn’t even know you had. And then He puts you in a community of other believers so you can utilize those gifts, skills, and abilities to benefit the Kingdom of God. This is what Peter was describing in 1 Peter 4:10. Each of us has been equipped by God to serve in certain ways and it is up to us to discover those spiritual gifts, skills, and abilities, and then put them to use for the benefit of others. The Apostle Paul taught this too. In 1 Corinthians 12:7 he wrote, “A manifestation of the Spirit is given to each person for the common good.” Likewise, in Galatians 6:9-10 Paul wrote, “Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.” But one thing we need to keep in mind is that the skills, gifts, and abilities that God gives us, and which we are then to use for the benefit of others and for the church, don’t necessarily show themselves immediately or all at once. John Newton didn’t write “Amazing Grace!” the day after he got saved. He didn’t begin preaching, teaching, writing books, and composing hymns in his first week, month, or year of being a Christian. Those skills and abilities developed over time as he prayed, worshiped, studied, served, and grew. The same will be true for you and me. The plans God has for you will evolve over time and will depend in large degree on how much you cooperate with the Holy Spirit in this business of progressive sanctification. John Newton diligently applied himself to the basic spiritual disciplines of the Christian life and as he did, God developed his abilities. What plans does God have for you? We will see. Your skills, abilities, and ministry activities will evolve over time as you grow. God bless, Pastor Jim (If you like what you’re reading in these daily devotionals, and if you would like more content from Oak Hill Baptist Church, join us on Sundays at 10:00, in-person if you are nearby or, if you are geographically distant or if you just can’t make it, online at www.YouTube.com/@oakhillbaptistcrossville |
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