How Do We Discover Our Spiritual Gifts?

Q: Every Christian has a gift. How do I know what my spiritual gifts are?

A: There are tests that people find or take. I'm sure you could go online and find many options. However, I don't have a lot of confidence in those things. I don't think they are completely without value, but I just don't rely on them.

When it comes to spiritual gifts, look for things that you have a desire to do, and as you do them, see if there seems to be a blessing upon them from God. For example, I started teaching the Bible when I was 16 years old at a home fellowship. When I began, nothing dramatic happened. There wasn't an unbelievable outpouring of the Spirit, and the group didn't grow significantly. But there was a sense that the Lord was pleased with what I was doing. I don't think those Bible studies were very good, but there was a sense of blessing on them.

So, look for the things you want to do and see if there's a sense of blessing on them. Also, don't neglect asking people who know you well. It's a great way to figure out how God may want to use you. You can ask, "What do you think I should try?" It can also be a blessing to know what you're not gifted in. If you try something and realize you're not gifted in that area, don't take it as a defeat; see it as a victory. It helps you pursue the things you are gifted in. I hope that helps you.