Christmas or birthdays are always interesting to see how people react as they unwrap gifts. Expectation is a funny thing, sometimes we are delighted and sometimes not so much, when we see what’s under the wrapping.
Have you ever received a gift that surprised you—not because it was expensive, but because it was thoughtful? Something that made you say, “Wow, they really know me.”
God’s gifts are not just the kind we think of during birthdays or holidays, but the powerful, personal, and purposeful gifts that God has placed inside you. That’s what God does. He gives us gifts that are tailored to who we are, who we’re becoming, and what He’s called us to do.
Scripture says quite a lot about this topic.
In James 1:17 it says “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
God is not random or careless with His gifts. Every ability, every opportunity, every talent, even the personality traits you have—those are all gifts from Him. He gives with intention and love. That means nothing about you is accidental. You are wired by a wise and loving Creator, not just a random evolved set of DNA that made it out of the slime.
Remember Every Gift Comes From God
In 1 Peter 4:10 it says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms.”
Your gifts are not just for you.They’re not just for your career or success or validation. They are for service, for building others up, and for glorifying God. Think about that. The gifts in your life are a way for God’s grace to flow through you.
Whether you sing, lead, teach, organize, write, encourage, fix things, or listen well—those things matter to the kingdom of God. And don’t underestimate the quieter gifts—compassion, hospitality, discernment, patience. These gifts are often unseen, but deeply powerful.
Remember You Are Gifted for a Purpose
In Romans 12:4-6 it says“Just as each of us has one body with many members… so in Christ we, though many, form one body… We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”
Comparison kills calling. If you spend your life wishing you had someone else’s gifts, you’ll miss the ones God has given you. You weren’t meant to have every gift. You were meant to use your gift, in your place, for His purpose.
So instead of asking, “Why didn’t I get that gift?” ask, “God, how can I use what You’ve placed in me?”
Remember You Are Not Meant to have Every Gift
You might not feel “gifted” right now—but gifts grow when they’re used.
Like a seed, a gift needs to be planted, watered, and sometimes pruned.
- Maybe your gift is encouragement—so encourage people often.
- Maybe you’re a teacher—so teach someone something today.
- Maybe you’re still discovering your gift—so explore, serve, try new things.
2 Timothy 1:6 says, “Fan into flame the gift of God which is in you.”
Some of you need to stop waiting for a stage and start using your gift in the places God has already given you.
Remember Your Gifts Can Grow
Let’s not forget the ultimate gift, Jesus Himself.
In Romans 6:23 it says “The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
No spiritual gift, no calling, no ability matters more than a personal relationship with Jesus. All other gifts are tools to point others to the Giver.
So let me ask you:
- What gifts has God placed in you?
- Are you using them? Are you hiding them? Are you still trying to discover them?
Whatever stage you’re in—God has given you something valuable. Something needed. Something powerful.
Don’t bury your gift. Don’t wait for perfect timing. Start today. Serve someone. Speak life. Create. Build. Lead. Help. Use what you’ve been given to bless the world around you.
Because God’s gifts were never meant to be kept in boxes. They were meant to be opened, shared, and multiplied for His glory.