Examining Scripture:
“Having then gifts differing
according to the grace that is given to us,
whether prophecy, let us prophesy
according to the proportion of faith;
Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering:
or he that teacheth, on teaching;
Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation:
he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity;
he that ruleth, with diligence,
he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
Romans 12:6-8
Evaluating Soil:
Applying God’s gifts in our homemaking will take some preparation and commitment on our parts. They aren’t just any gifts. Look at the Greek definitions for these “Gifts” from the Strong’s Concordance:
- (divine) gratuity
- deliverance (from danger or passion)
- (specifically) a (spiritual) endowment
- (subjectively) religious qualification
- (objectively) miraculous faculty
If we’re not living holy lives that are conformed to God’s will, it’s unlikely that we’ll be able to incorporate God’s work in and through our homes. We may need to put on our work aprons and gloves and clear off a place for these gifts to have space in our lives. Holiness can’t thrive in an unholy environment.
Experiencing Seasons:
As we transition into the spring season, the “out with the old, in with the new, one thing in, one thing out” ways of thinking have been my favorite mottos. As I strive to clean out, downsize, and organize my home, I’ve realized that unused, worn, and broken things need to be discarded to make way for calming spaces or things that better serve our needs.
I’m also learning that these spring cleaning thoughts apply to my spiritual life too. Holding on to old ways of thinking and behaving distract from the priorities God has for me.
Embracing Solace:
Spiritual and physical solace comes with orderliness in our hearts and homes. When we get rid of things that hinder a holy lifestyle and no longer meet our needs, we make room for things that do.
This may be our season to purge out obstacles and obligations that are crowding out God’s gifts and occupying our minds, space and time.
Enjoying Simplicity:
God’s gifts are freely available to us. For us to not accept or apply them in our lives is an insulting rejection of His graciousness. He gives us things He knows are appropriate for our faith, will help us live in holiness, and will prevent complications in our lives. Why would we choose to miss out on that?
Employing Solutions:
Let’s consider the ways the gifts listed in Romans 12:6-8 can be implemented in our homemaking: (See the previous blog post to review definitions.)
- Prophesy (according to the proportion of faith)
We can study and teach what the Bible says about God’s plan for our futures.
- Ministering
We can offer charitable (loving) aid and service to others and those who teach.
- Teaching
We can share Biblical instruction with our loved ones.
- Exhortation
We can offer encouragement and comfort to those in need or grief.
- Giveth (with simplicity)
We can share what we have with others.
- Ruleth (with diligence)
We can stand before, preside over, or practise holiness as diligent leaders
- Sheweth Mercy (with cheerfulness)
We can be compassionate in word or deed by the divine grace given to us.
As God’s children, when we apply and display the different gifts he bestows on us, not only will we see positive change to our hearts, we’ll encourage, facilitate, and inspire change in our homes as well.
Bring It Home
Which of these gifts do you see used in your home?
Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC
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