10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:10-11 (NIV)
Are your gifts more of the up-front type or are they more behind-the-scenes? Do people notice when you serve, or do they take it for granted? Our celebrity-oriented, media-driven society tends to place a higher value on talents that are exercised in public; and that can send the message that our less-glamorous abilities are also less important. But that’s not the way God sees it.
1 Peter 4:10 mentions people who “speak” and people who “serve” as representative of two categories of gifts—those that are more public and those that are more private. In God’s eyes, both are important. Why? Because both benefit those whom we serve, and both bring glory to God.
When you go to a Broadway show, the actors on stage are in the spotlight—literally. We know they’re important. But so are the people who are behind-the-scenes handling the props, running the lights and sound, taking the tickets, and showing you to your seat. When they aren’t there, the show can’t go on.
The same is true in church. We see the pastor and the musicians up front, and we notice at least some of the greeters and ushers. But what about the people who set up the chairs and clean the floors? We may not see them, but we’d certainly notice if they weren’t doing their job!
How has God gifted you? Do you appreciate the talents He’s given you? Spend a few minutes thanking Him for the abilities you have, and ask Him to help you to use them with a joyful heart.