1 Peter 4:1-11
Be still: Lord Jesus, help me to see all the 'grace gifts' you have given me. Amen.
Read: 1 Peter 4:1-11
As each one has received a Special Gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God. Whoever speaks is to do so as one who is speaking actual words of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. ' (v10-11)
Encounter: Reading this passage, I’m drawn back to the reality that what I have, what I do, and what I say is a testament to God’s stewardship of grace. Some translations even refer to these as grace gifts: it's a reminder that our abilities and opportunities are not earned – they’re entrusted.
When the world went into lockdown, like many others, I thought it’d be a good time to try something new. I bought a digital piano. I wasn’t trained or even confident in the slightest, but I bought it with one reason in mind: to offer my devotion to God through worship.
What happened next was a testament to his grace – I gave God my discomfort, lack of experience and my curiosity. In return, he gave me confidence. My weakness and inability were met with his strength. That is the essence of 1 Peter 4:10–11. We’re not called to be experts – we’re called to be stewards, faithful with what we’ve been given, even if that feels small or undeveloped.
Over the years, one of my joys has been helping others step into new areas they’ve always been curious about – whether it’s the prophetic, AV tech, coding languages, or even dream interpretation. When we place our curiosity in God’s hands, with the purpose to serve one another, he multiplies it. He turns a grace gift into a talent.
So, if you feel you’re not ready or you’re just tired of failing at something you felt drawn to – please don’t give up. Start with what you have. Don’t walk away from that thing you’ve always wanted to do. Offer it to God. He will strengthen you.
Apply: What is one gift or passion you’ve always been curious about, but haven’t pursued? Consider one small way you could take a step of faith this week, trusting that God will provide the strength you need.
Devote: Thank you, Lord, that I didn’t have to earn what I have, but that you entrusted it to me. Thank you for gifting me, blessing me, and strengthening me in all the things I devote to you.