2nd June 2025

Have you ever had to split a cookie with one of your siblings? You try to make it perfectly even, because the other person has the first pick. They spend some time sizing it up, looking for the one that is bigger, before making their choice. Did you ever feel it was unfair? If you are the giver, you should have the right to decide how and what to give,

At first it seemed to me, in Ephesians 4:7, that grace was given unequally. Does it say Christ was judgmental in the amount, as if one person receives a lot and another little or none? No, not at all, all received grace, the problem is in my perception. I like the way the Easy English Bible puts this verse: ‘But God has been kind to all of us. Each of us has received a special gift, just as Christ has decided to give us.’ It says that God has been kind to all, not unfair in his choices, but wise in what he knows is the best way to give to each one of us. The gift is not so much for our pleasure as it is for the benefit of all we will touch with it in our lives. It is not that one gift is better than the other, but that all of these things are needed in this world of ours. I believe that our maker knows how we will use our gifts, knows those gifts that meet our personality and ability, knows who will benefit from our use of our gifts.

As long as I can remember, writing has been a big part of my life. Writing has been a release from stress and sadness, as well as a way to express my joy. How about you? What has your passion been? How has God gifted you in a way that fulfills this? What open door has he given to you so that you may share this gift? Do you have a strong passion for something? Chances are God is behind your passion if it is one that can benefit those around you, such as gardening, healthcare, organisation, teaching, and so many more. I will leave you to fill it in. 

Our gifts are meant to spread the gospel message, in word and in deed as we share the love and passions of God. Our gifts are meant to support one another and work together as we spread the wonderful news of God’s great love for his children. The apostle Paul tells us, ‘It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.’ (I Corinthians 12:11 NLT). Verses 12-31 go on to explain that as the body with its various parts all works together for the good of the whole, so we do also with the gifts that we are blessed with. We are to desire and to ask for those gifts that will benefit the body of Christ to which we belong. What love we have in Christ!

Local congregation:
You are welcome to attend one of our local church congregations located throughout the UK and Ireland. For details of your nearest local congregation check on our website, Grace Communion International | Grace Communion International under the ‘Churches’ tab, or ring +44 (0)1858 437099.

Word of Life contact:
wordoflife@gracecom.church