He who gave some Apostles,Prophets,Evangelists,Pastors and Teachers.

" It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of services, so the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."  Ephesians 4:11-13
 
 
     God gives us spiritual gifts for a purpose.  They are not to atrophy from non-use or swell heads from misuse.  They are not to be put on hold or hidden away.  God gives spiritual gifts for a purpose:  to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.
 
     Spiritual gifts are given in order to help others grow.  In the process of helping others grow, we grow ourselves.  That's why I get so frustrated when Christians don't use their gifts.  The church is dependent on mature believers who are not as far along in the maturation process.  The health and future of the church depends on you using your gift to serve and develop others.  
 
     For the sake of the body of Jesus Christ, use your gifts to prepare God's people for the works of service.  If you choose to sit on the sidelines, we all lose.
 
Prayer:  Father, move Your people to use the gifts You have given them.  In Christ's name, Amen.

By Bishop Bernard Williams