How to Find Your Spiritual Gifts

Finding my spiritual gift has been an elusive idea my entire life in the Christian church and life. I’ve really struggled with what spiritual gifts might be accessible to me.

I think there has been a little bit of a doubt in my heart that spiritual gifting was actually for me. The idea that God would bestow me with some sort of super spiritual gifting always felt beyond my reach.

Why? Why would I believe that when it’s not in fact true.

Honestly, it might be because I was believing an alternative gospel. One that required me to clean myself up or do something for my acceptance in God’s good graces to be used by Him.

The truth is… spiritual gifts are made available to all Christians. It just might be a matter of timing or spiritual maturity that God is waiting on in you, but what I discovered is that this reality doesn’t change my salvation or God’s love for me.

What are spiritual gifts?

The bible has a few go-to verses about the spiritual gifts.

You may turn to Romans 12:6-8 and see Prophecy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Giving, Leadership, and Mercy listed.

1 Corinthians 12:8-10 lists Word of Wisdom, Word of Knowledge, Faith, Gifts of Healings, Miracles, Prophecy, Distinguishing between Spirits, Tongues, and Interpretation of Tongues

Now there is 1 Corinthians 12:28-30 which lists Apostle, Prophet, Teacher, Miracles, Kinds of Healings, Helps, Administration, and Tongues

While there is debate about some of these the point is that there are some pretty explicit places in the scriptures that God made a point to list spiritual gifts.

Why Do They Matter?

We are given these gifts for a purpose and for the edification of the church.

While there is debate on what constitutes some of these spiritual gifts as present in the church now and some include what appear to be roles in the church as gifts. However, there is no clear evidence in scripture that I have seen that gives reason to believe these gifts would be cut off or ended.

While it may be the experience of some believers that they do not witness or experience these gifts in practice that does not mean they have ended.

I do fear that the over emphasis of these gifts that has happened in the church is unnecessary. It’s important to keep in mind that obsessing over having received a spiritual gift does not determine ones salvation or faith by any stretch of the imagination.

They are given in grace as it says in Romans 12: 6-8 and they are given by the same spirit. So, exploring the spiritual gifts based on merit or evident talents is not a very biblical practice.

Spiritual Gift Assessments

While I’ve expressed caution with regards to obsessing over spiritual gifts, it’s excellent to desire to live in them and to be available to their presence in the life of a believer.

Keep in mind that it is at the heart of obedience and service to the Lord that we are to seek these gifts and not for personal gain or purpose. So, seeking the spiritual gifts from God is good and a healthy part of walking with the Spirit.

While talents are natural abilities we can hone over time, spiritual gifts come directly from God’s Spirit and are often specific to His calling for us. You might find, however, that your natural talents complement your spiritual gifts. For example, someone with a talent for public speaking might find they have the gift of teaching or encouragement.

Everything Starts with Prayer

Seek God’s wisdom first in your journey to understanding your spiritual gift. Ask God for clarity and wisdom in uncovering the gifts He’s placed within you. Pray openly, letting God know that you’re ready and willing to serve in whatever way He calls you. Keep in mind that God doesn’t answer prayer on our timetable. I’ve watched many believers give up or become frustrated in their prayer because God is not “answering” in the way in which they expect Him to. God’s timing is perfect in all things. Even this. So, live faithfully in the immediate things He has called you to.

Affirmations

Now in your prayer life ask for God to confirm the calling and gifts He gives to you. I encourage new believers to be careful in doing this by testing the spirits they encounter against the scripture and through the wisdom given to other believers wiser in their faith.

Seek Feedback
Affirmation may come through the encouragement and edification of the church. The opportunity to serve in certain ways that use your gifts or God presenting to you the moment in time to be obedient to use the gift He has given you.

Your gift doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Our spiritual family can often see our gifts before we do. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or church leaders who know you well. Ask them where they see God’s unique calling on your life. Their feedback can offer confirmation and may even reveal strengths you haven’t recognized.

Serve and Observe
One of the best ways to discover your gifts is to serve in various areas and see what feels natural and fulfilling. Join a small group, volunteer in your church, or participate in community outreach. Over time, you’ll notice where you feel most effective and where others are most impacted by your service.

Final Thoughts

Discovering your spiritual gifts is a process, and it’s perfectly okay if it takes time. God’s purpose for your life will unfold in His timing. Be patient with yourself, stay open, and remember that every step brings you closer to understanding how God wants to use you.

As you discover and develop your gifts, you’ll experience deeper fulfillment and a greater sense of purpose in your walk with God. Embrace this journey, and trust that God will guide you exactly where you’re meant to serve.