After YouSample

At the end of every week, we'll give you a challenge—something to try that might be outside your regular routine. Each challenge is designed to help you develop one important spiritual habit. This week, it's...

USE YOUR GIFTS

God has given all of us unique gifts. Whether it's your skills, talents, character traits, experiences, lessons learned, or even some of the stuff you own, you have a lot you can share with others. Today's challenge is going to help you think about the gifts God has uniquely given you and how you can use those gifts to love God and others. Because when we use our gifts for God, we grow!

All of us have gifts, but having gifts doesn't mean we're using them. One reason we may be distracted or in a hurry to share what we have with others is that we may be unable to do so. For today's challenge, take time to consider how your gifts can benefit someone else.

Find a quiet place like your room, backyard, or the corner booth of your favorite coffee shop. Bring a paper, something to write on, and a pen. Set a timer for five minutes and write down on the left side of the paper as many things that you're good at that come to mind. When you're finished, set the timer for five more minutes, and on the right side of the page, write down the names of people who could benefit from you sharing that gift with them.

When you're finished, circle one of the names and plan how you'll take action. Maybe you're gifted with words, and you can write them a note sharing how special they are to you. Or you could be a great cook, and you could encourage them by sharing a meal together. Talk to God and ask for the Spirit to guide you as you look for ways to serve others.