THE FIERY SPIRIT - Coptic Orthodox Electronic Publishing

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STIRRING UP THE GIFTS. . .
ENJOY CONSTANT RENEWAL
DO NOT NEGLECT THE GIFT THAT IS IN YOU!
St. Paul’s advice to his beloved disciple Timothy is, “Do
not neglect the gift that is in you” (1 Tim. 4:14). This is also an
advice for us. God has sent His Holy Spirit to distribute various
gifts to His people. St. Paul says, “for to one is given the word
of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge
through the same Spirit, But one and the same Spirit works all
these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills”
(1 Cor. 12:8,11).
Two factors have to be considered:
1. It is definite that the Holy Spirit has granted you with
one or more gifts for your spiritual growth, and for the sake of
helping others. He is ready to disclose those gifts to you, stir
them up and nourish them within you.
2. God does not reward you according to what kind of
gifts you have, or how important they are, but He rather
rewards you according to your honesty in stirring up these gifts!
God considers your cooperation with the Holy Spirit and how
you apply your gifts to good use.
HOW TO DISCOVER YOUR GIFTS?
Ask God to reveal His gifts to you. He who has given
you, will generously reveal them to you.
Start with fervent prayers! Offer God your love, and
remember He has loved you first! Show this love in your deeds
and treatment of others, even to those who annoy you. God will
then open your eyes and you will perceive the capabilities which
He has given you, and your true role in witnessing to Him.
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