Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Have you ever received a gift that you just can’t get over?

I’ll never forget the day my mom and dad gave me my first car — a 1978 Camaro. And for the car enthusiasts, yes, it had a 400 engine bored out to a 406. She was a beauty — and she could fly. I know this because, at the wise old age of 16, I took her up to about 100 mph down Broadway Drive in Hattiesburg. Every light turned green, and I couldn’t resist showing the teenage boy in the truck next to me just how fast my car really was.

True story.

I’ll never forget that car — or the responsibility that came with it. Along with the keys, my parents gave me the car payment to manage.

Earthly gifts like that car are memorable, but I’ve also received spiritual gifts I will never get over. Scripture tells us in Ephesians 4, 1 Corinthians 12–14, and Romans 12 that spiritual gifts are given to everyday believers like you and me. One of my greatest joys is encouraging people to discover their God-given gifts — it’s often the first step toward understanding your Kingdom purpose (see yesterday’s devotional and Ephesians 2:10).

But just like that fast car came with responsibility, so do our spiritual gifts. In Ephesians 3 and 4, Paul reminds us that all believers have gifts, and we all have a responsibility to use them. The Church shines brightest when we come together in unity, each bringing our unique gifts to serve others.

As believers, we need to be self-aware. It’s not enough just to know our gifts — we must also renew our minds and actions with God’s truth. In my experience, those who are both God-aware and self-aware walk more abundantly in their purpose and bring greater glory to God. That’s another true story.

So I hope this week has you thinking about your purpose and about your gifts. If you’re not sure what your gifts are and you’d like to grow in self-awareness, I encourage you to check out the assessments on Venture’s website: https://www.venturechurch.org/SpiritualGifts.

And here’s a double-dog dare: Discover your gifts, then connect with a Venture staff member or your House Church Pastor to explore how you can use them both on and off our campuses.

Double-dog dares are serious!

Our community needs you — and the unique, God-given gifts you bring. I hope you’ll take a step this week toward walking in abundance. 

Jesus, today I want to pray for each person reading this devotional. God, please help them to not only know the gifts You have given them but also use those gifts for Your glory. Help us to grow in our faith and serve you well. AMEN!

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God’s Word.

• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today’s passage?
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises? 
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you? 
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.

FALL AT VENTURE

KXP, MVMNT, The Gathering, House Church, and Care Groups are all starting back this fall! For launch dates and events, check out the Fall at Venture webpage.