Christmas presents under the tree are fun, aren’t they? All that pretty wrapping paper, the glittering gift bags, and the promise of things inside that you’ve been waiting for can make you feel like a giddy five-year-old. Unwrapping them is a blast, too. Gifts are awesome, but the best kinds of presents aren’t things you can buy.
Did you know that you have gifts? Really. And not just at Christmas—all year round! You have been “gifted” by God. He created you with a holy purpose, and the gifts he’s given you are way better than anything you can pick out at the mall. God has work already planned for you that only you have the unique set of talents and skills to do (Ephesians 2:10).
So what are those gifts? Instead of cozy boots or delicious-smelling perfume, these gifts are world-changing things. Check out this passage, as well as Romans 12:4-8 and Ephesians 4:7-12, to see what kinds of gifts the Holy Spirit gives Christians.
Then go online to find a spiritual gifts “test” to help you discover the areas in which you’re strongest. Meet with you youth pastor, a spiritually mature friend, or your parents, and ask them what they see as your gifts and how they can help you grow in those areas. Next, find the place you can use them to encourage people and make the world better. You might be amazed at what God has you do. Let your little light shine, baby!
Excerpted from Revolve™ 2009: The Complete New Testament. © 2008 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. The Holy Bible, New Century Version. © 2005 Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
