fbpx

The Motivational Gifts

In the last 20 years, motivational speaking has developed into big business within American culture.  People flock to conference centers around the nation to hear someone encourage them to make better choices, to change the direction of their lives, and to chase their dreams.  Companies bring in big names to pump up productivity and increase morale among the rank and file.  Many times, those who left pumped up are back to the old routine in no time.  Why? Because there was not a change of heart only a momentary emotional change.

Interestingly, God has also equipped many believers, through the Holy Spirit, to operate with gifts designed to motivate the body of Christ as well as non-believers.  The difference? God changes the heart of the listener, which then prompts a change of action (Psalm 51:10-13).
 
Paul teaches us in Ephesians 4:11 and 12 exactly what these motivation gifts are.  He says, “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”
 

Each gift is different and believers may be gifted with more than one. Those who are gifted in this way typically serve to encourage believers to study scripture, challenge their daily living based on God’s word, to hold on in the face of tribulation, and to grow daily in their relationship with God.  To the non-believer, they are to present the gospel of Christ without apology and encourage repentance.  In summary, they motivate believers to live holy and non-believers to turn to Christ.

Reflection:

  • Are the motivational gifts still necessary in today’s world? Why or why not?
  • Take time this week to study Ephesians 4:11 and 12 and discover what the roll of each gift is. Make a note of any that may apply to you.

Leave a Reply