The
Bible informs us - 14 Do not
neglect the spiritual gift within you, [that special endowment]
which was intentionally bestowed on you [by the Holy Spirit] through
prophetic utterance when the elders laid their hands on you [at your
ordination]. 15 Practice and work hard on these
things; be absorbed in them [completely occupied in your ministry], so that your
progress will be evident to all. 16 Pay close attention
to yourself [concentrate on your personal development] and to your teaching; persevere
in these things [hold to them], for as you do this you will ensure
salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:14-16
(AMP)
So God gives us what we
need - intentionally, and we are to "intentionally" use them (become
experts) so that our relationship with Him is the best it can be. That is
pretty straight forward. Most believers know this, even if we have a problem
with the application.
Don't miss the last part
of this teaching, "as you do this you will ensure salvation for yourself
and for those who hear you". I saw this played out at my Dad's visitation
and funeral. He applied this verse in a humble but consistent way every day. As
he worked on his relationship with Christ - he brought others to Jesus! I heard
testimony after testimony about through Dad's life's witness countless
people found and grew in Christ! Well done Dad.
Take what God has given
and become the best you in Jesus. Amen?