God has given us each a gift for doing certain things well. But this doesn’t mean our gift is needed in every situation. We must take wisdom with us to discern when our gift is a true blessing, and when it might cause more harm than good.
For instance, some people have the gift of words, and it’s a rare moment that they don’t have anything to say. While at its best this can provide much support, many insights, and expressions of love, it can also crowd out the space needed for others to find their own voice. As such, even when others expect them to always fill the silence, the gift is no longer an act of love when it doesn’t provide true good. In these moments, the most loving thing to do might be to remain silent – filtering the gift to the need and letting others find the voice God has given them. And a similar approach might be needed regardless of our particular gift.
Of course, the point here is not to hold back in fear – worried that others might try to hide behind our gifts. We must remain committed to doing the good God has called us to do regardless of how others might try to take advantage of us. But there’s still wisdom in discerning when and how we offer our gift.
To be sure, we want to use the abilities God has given us to make an impact for good. But we must not let our pride blind us with zeal and tempt us to offer our gift in places where it’s not useful. We set ourselves up for much bitterness and resentment when we do.
In the end, freely offer the gifts God has given you to bless the lives of others. And take wisdom with you to discern when your good intentions might be causing more harm than good.
Photo by Carlos Gilbert on Unsplash
