What is my Spiritual Gift?

Do you know what your spiritual gifts are? Most Christians are familiar with the “charismatic” gifts like prophecy, healing, and tongues that come from the Holy Spirit. But did you know there are actually two other categories of spiritual gifts mentioned in Scripture? Understanding these distinctions can help you better identify your own unique spiritual giftings and appreciate how you fit into the diverse body of Christ.

Spiritual gifts can be confusing because they’re not just one list. There are actually three main categories mentioned in Scripture:

These are the supernatural “charismatic” gifts we tend to think of - gifts like prophecy, healing, miracles, tongues, interpretation of tongues, the word of wisdom, the word of knowledge, discerning of spirits, and faith.

They are given spontaneously by the Holy Spirit to build up the church and manifest God’s power. You can read about these in 1 Corinthians 12.

These gifts are offices or roles that Christ appoints people to in the church - gifts like apostleship, prophecy, evangelism, pastoring, teaching.

Jesus Himself gives these gifts to equip believers for practical service and leadership within His body. You can find lists of these ministry gifts in Ephesians 4:11-12.

Finally, there are gifts connected to our natural personalities and operations - gifts like leadership, administration, wisdom, knowledge, faith, discernment, mercy, and hospitality.

These are sometimes called motivational gifts. They describe our innate wiring and the way we’re energized when using them. You can read about these in Romans 12:6-8.

Why is it so crucial that we understand spiritual gifts - both our own and others’ gifts?

For one thing, it helps us understand our design and calling. We can have confidence that the desires God planted in us are good! Operating in our gifts brings joy and fulfillment.

Secondly, understanding spiritual gifts fosters unity within the body of Christ. When we appreciate the variety of gifts, we avoid wrongfully criticizing those who are different or minimizing the need for certain gifts.

Instead of envy or strife, we can rejoice in our differences and fulfill the law of Christ by bearing each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Our distinct gifts complement each other beautifully.

Finally, identifying spiritual gifts enables us to use them to build up others. We can more effectively minister to the church when we know our gifts and gladly put them to work!

There is richness in the diversity of Christ’s body. As we discover our own gifts and appreciate those of fellow believers, we are equipped to build each other up in love.

We hope this guide has shed light on the wonderful variety of gifts God has distributed among His people. You have a special purpose within the body. Continue seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you unwrap the gifts entrusted specifically to you.