Throughout the Bible, there are many examples of Spiritual Gifts, as well as many instances where God chooses an unlikely person to achieve great things simply to prove His glory. Look no further than the Great Commission when Jesus calls His followers to make disciples of all nations to see God calling us to do great things.

While we probably aren’t going to be parting waters like Moses or building a massive ship like Noah, the Apostle Paul writes about gifts from God which are intended to be used during our service as the Body of Christ. However, he also points out that we do receive these gifts before coming to Christ. It is ultimately our choice, by free will, to use these spiritual gifts in a good way.

“For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge—God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:5-9

How to Determine your Spiritual Gifts

Think about your talents or the things you are simply good at doing. Whether it is math, drawing, building, or singing there is always something in your skillset that God has destined to use for His Kingdom.  If you are not sure what your talents are or the skills you have, the best way to discover them is actually the same way you discovered the gift of salvation. You can pray and ask the Holy Spirit if the things you are good at are things that God has blessed you with or not. 

You may have heard the analogy that your spiritual gifts are like the crown jewels of England, hidden away in the Tower of London. These jewels are the tools God has chosen to use in the service of the church, just as a king would choose the finest jewels to adorn his treasure.

Here are some spiritual gifts that you may have. While not an exhaustive list, it is helpful to understand what your role may be in the church. Do you see yourself in any of these?

List of Spiritual Gifts

  • Apostle: the person who teaches the word of God.
  • Prophet: the person who predicts the future and forecasts the will of God for the church.
  • Evangelist: the person who spreads the Gospel or Good News.
  • Pastor: the caretaker of people and things. They watch over their flock and resolve conflict between the members of the church.
  • Teacher: the person who teaches the word of God.
  • Exhortation: the person who takes the lead in the encouragement of the people in the church, the person is the one who inspires the people to continue moving forward with the Lord.
  • Mercy: the person who performs the Lord’s work of grace and charity.
  • Giving: the person whose generosity makes the church function financially.
  • Leadership: the person whom God has given the responsibility or “rule over the church.”
  • Administration: the person who manages the spiritual well-being of the people in the church, the one who makes the work of the church orderly and efficient.
  • Hospitality: the person who welcomes strangers and those from other churches into their home for meals or overnight stays, as well as being a friendly face to the members of the church.
  • Help: the person who does the work that is physically laborious and not glorious, the one who helps the sick or those in need.
  • Excellence: the person who seeks to perfect their faith by working hard and setting a good example for the others in the church.
  • Generosity: the person who gives donations financially to the needs of the church.

More About Spiritual Gifts

Paul, Peter and John were written about because they were dedicated to the work of God and the transformation of lives in the first century. They all had spiritual gifts which enabled them to do great things.

Some are called to lead and govern; others are called to minister and preach. Some are called to work and build; others are called to be cheerleaders. Whatever you are feeling lead to do, it is probably a sign that God is trying to use you for His glory by moving you into your next task.

You may also find it helpful to take a spiritual gift test to help you determine what your gifts may be.

There are other, more supernatural gifts found in the history of the Church and Scripture. Some may have the gift of prophecy. Others may give a word of knowledge or experience a word of wisdom. Some may even have the gift of healing if they receive power from the Holy Spirit.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” Romans 12:6-8

No matter what your talent is, God does not want you to be ashamed of it. He often draws out the most unlikely people to do great things in His name. He has used small and week to conquer nations and shy and meek to lead the crowds. Imagine what he has in store for you and give Him the praise!

“so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Romans 12:5