“…that none of you may be puffed up
on behalf of one against the other.
For who makes you differ from another?
And what do you have that you did not receive?
Now if you did indeed receive it,
why do you boast as if you had not received it?”
1st Corinthians 4:7

Every gift, every talent, every ability, every wisdom, every understanding that each individual has – was GIVEN to him/her. From this we can make three points:

1. If it was given, then it didn’t arise from within yourself. Bring thanksgiving to God who gave it and use it with all your heart for his glory.

2. If you understand that it was given you, do not expect others to walk in the same gifting or talent or ability that you have. They do not have what you have, nor do you have what they have been gifted with.

3. Do not covet another’s gift or talent. It was given to them. You have your own. Do not judge that another’s gift is better or inferior to your own. God is the giver. Respect that with all your heart.

We are the body of Christ, differing in gifts, callings, talents, and functions. Every gift, every talent, is meant to operate for the building up of the whole body of Christ – therefore, every gift and every talent is needed. Don’t look down on others as being inferior, and don’t squander yours. You are needed.