THE RESPONSIBILITY OF USING GOD\'S GIFTS WISELY By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10-11 - "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
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INTRODUCTION
Gifts from God are divine endowments meant to glorify Him and fulfill His purposes on earth. Many believers receive gifts but fail to steward them correctly, leading to self-exaltation, pride, and misdirection. This message emphasizes the importance of remaining humble, accountable, and obedient in using the gifts God gives, ensuring that all glory is returned to Him. The ministry of Jesus Christ serves as the perfect example of humility and servanthood. He never sought personal recognition but always glorified the Father. As followers of Christ, we must emulate His example, remaining faithful and steadfast in our calling.
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GOD'S GIFTS ARE FOR HIS GLORY, NOT OURS
James 1:17 - "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."
God is the source of all spiritual gifts. They are given to believers to fulfill His divine agenda, not for personal fame or gain. When individuals start taking credit for the works of God, they misplace the purpose of their calling. Many begin well but later fall because they fail to recognize that gifts are given freely by God and should be used to honor Him.
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FOLLOWING THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS CHRIST
John 5:19 - "So Jesus said to them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.'"
Jesus exemplified how gifts should be used in submission to the Father. Despite performing miracles, healings, and other great works, He never sought personal glory. Instead, He directed all honor to God. As believers, we must adopt this attitude, ensuring that we do not use God's gifts for self-promotion but for the advancement of His Kingdom.
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ACCOUNTABILITY IN USING GOD'S GIFTS
Romans 14:12 - "So then each of us will give an account of himself to God."
With great gifts come great responsibilities. God entrusts gifts to individuals, expecting them to use them wisely and for the right purposes. Those who misuse or exploit their gifts for personal advantage will be held accountable before God. Instead of seeking personal validation, believers must focus on obedience and faithful service to God.
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GOD USES HIS GIFTS TO DRAW PEOPLE TO HIMSELF
Mark 16:17-18 - "And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover."
Miracles and manifestations of the Holy Spirit are given as signs to draw people to Christ. Many who are bound in false religions may only recognize the power of Jesus through these signs. However, such demonstrations should always point back to the reality of Christ’s deity and saving grace.
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PERSECUTION WILL COME, BUT GOD WILL STRENGTHEN YOU
Matthew 5:10-12 - "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven."
When believers stand firm in Christ and use His gifts rightly, they may face persecution. Some will reject them, call them names, and oppose their faith. However, God calls us to endure, knowing that our faithfulness will be rewarded. Persecution should not deter us but rather drive us deeper into God's presence and purpose.
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STAY HUMBLE AND FOCUSED ON GOD'S MISSION
Colossians 3:23-24 - "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
True disciples of Christ maintain humility and remain faithful to God’s mission. They do not get distracted by pride or self-glory but instead focus on fulfilling their divine assignment.
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SUMMARY
The gifts God gives are meant to glorify Him and edify others. Jesus serves as our perfect model for how to use these gifts—always pointing people back to God. Believers must remain accountable, humble, and steadfast in their faith, using their gifts for God's glory and not personal gain.
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CONCLUSION
Using God's gifts responsibly is an act of obedience and faithfulness. Believers are called to steward their gifts wisely, ensuring they bring honor to God rather than themselves. Persecution may arise, but those who endure will receive divine strength and eternal rewards.
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THE CALL TO ACTION
God calls every believer to examine their hearts and motives. Are you using your gifts for His glory, or have you allowed pride to take root? It is time to realign with God’s purpose and ensure that every spiritual endowment is used for His Kingdom.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Know that your labor in Him is never in vain. Remain in unity with Christ, and He will continue to bless and multiply the gifts entrusted to you.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, pray this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You. Forgive me, cleanse me, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I declare that You are my Lord and Savior. Help me to live for You and use my gifts for Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen."
