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For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:4-7).

In the first congregation I served, there was an elderly saint who wore the same broach each Sunday. It wasn\u2019t flashy or made from expensive stones. It was simply the word, \u201cAttitude.\u201d I asked her about it once. Her reply was simple too, \u201cIts all about attitude.\u201d When it comes to spiritual gifts, I think the apostle would agree.

Its worth noting that we will not find the phrase, spiritual gifts, in the Bible. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul does use the phrase, \u2018the gifts of the Spirit.\u2019 The phrase is only used there. Here in Romans 12 and in 1 Peter 4 they are gifts of grace. They are part of the redeeming grace that God gives us through faith in Jesus.

Over the past several decades, the emphasis in the North American church has been on discerning our spiritual gifts. A quick Google search indicates that there are dozens of different tests or assessments one can take to determine one\u2019s gifts. I can\u2019t help but wonder if the Apostle Paul is shaking his head in dismay muttering, \u2018You\u2019re missing the point.\u2019 The Biblical emphasis is not on what gift(s) we have, but \u2018our attitude\u2019 in using them. That is not to say that taking a spiritual gifts assessment or course can\u2019t be beneficial. But if we don\u2019t get to the question of attitude, we will miss the boat.

In the New Testament, there are at least 4 places where these gifts are mentioned and listed (Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, Ephesians 4 and 1 Peter 4). Each appears to be no more than a random sampling. But there are two things that are consistent through out, first, these gifts come from God, and second, he gives them for the building of his church. Certainly, they are given to individuals, but they are given for the sake of the church.

Thus, in this area of spiritual gifts, we can harm the church is two ways. First, we can simply neglect to use these gifts. Secondly, we can use them badly. Remember where this paragraph started, \u2018do not think more highly of yourself then you ought, but with sober judgement.\u2019 In Corinthians, the spiritual gifts led to arrogance and one up-man-ship. Even further back, the chapter began with \u2018Therefore, in view of God\u2019s mercy\u2026\u201d These gifts of grace are part of God\u2019s mercy to us, his way of providing for his new community, the church. God wants his church to flourish. The question is, Do we? Do we view our gifting as God\u2019s way for the church to fulfill its purpose?

Paul concentrates on the spirit in which the gifts are exercised. His overriding concern is that we utilize the full grace of God in our corporate life. To do this, we must overcome all attitudinal problems. We must behave in a manner that befits the renewed mind.

For many of us, this time of being scattered, in the wilderness, has been a time of stepping back from church life. Sabbath is about renewal. As part of that, it is important to do an attitude tune-up. Here are some tune-up questions: What is your attitude towards the church? Have you distanced yourself from it? Have you been hurt by the church? Is it time to forgive and seek reconciliation? How does your attitude need to change so you can help the church flourish?

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