Bible Study

Title: Using Your Gift
Date: Sep 21, 2005
Topic(s): Obedience/Discipleship
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:6-8

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A man was going through the drawers of his wife's bureau. She had died a few weeks before, and he was faced with the task of disposing of some of her personal belongings. With sadness he discovered some beautiful jewelry he had given her a few years before. It was still in its box, never worn. She had been waiting for a special occasion.

God also gives gifts. His desire, however, is for us to use them rather than wait for a special occasion. Spiritual gifts are tools, not party favors. Let's see what the Bible says.

What Does God Say?

The apostle Paul writes to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:6-8:

"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So you must never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don't be ashamed of me, either, even though I'm in prison for Christ. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the proclamation of the Good News" (NLT).

• What is Paul's reminder to Timothy?
• What seems to be keeping Timothy from using his gift?
• What does God give along with the gift so that you can use it more appropriately?

My Thoughts

What is your spiritual gift? (If you don't know, check with your pastor or another spiritually mature Christian and ask for their opinion.) When was the last time you used your gift? If it has not been recently, what has kept you from using it?

My Part

Determine to use your spiritual gift (or gifts) this week. If you are not able to exercise your gift this week, at least take steps to make sure you have the opportunity to use your gift in the next couple of weeks. Don't leave this world with any unopened boxes.

Additional Scripture to read: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Romans 12:6-8

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