"With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility"

Pastor Ben Díaz
 

Are you worried you’re missing God’s purpose for your life? Pastor reminded us with comforting assurance that if you are following Jesus, you’re already living in His purpose. “You’re in it now!” This isn’t a future destination—it’s a journey of discovery and faithfulness.

As you walk with Jesus, you’ll begin to see the unique gifts He’s placed within you. Every believer is equipped with gifts, not for self-promotion, but to serve others in the body of Christ. As 1 Corinthians 12:7 reminds us: “A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.” Pastor explained that these gifts are grace-given and come at no cost to us, yet they hold immense value for those we serve.

The gifts of the Spirit, listed in 1 Corinthians 12:8-11, include wisdom, words of knowledge, gift of faith, gift of healing, working miracles, gift of prophecy, discernment of spirits, speaking in tongues, and interpreting tongues. Pastor encouraged us to ask God for these gifts and step out in faith to use them.

Here’s the key: the gift you need will often only become evident when you step into the assignment God has given you. The gift is waiting at your assignment, not on your couch! When you’re faithful in the small things, God can trust you with greater responsibilities.

Many gifts are seasonal, given by God as grace to carry us through specific challenges or times of need. Pastor shared his own testimony of how God’s grace sustained him through a dirt bike accident and the heartbreak of his father’s untimely passing. These “grace gifts” flow naturally when we depend on the Holy Spirit within us.

Some gifts may feel like a natural “superpower,” while others come to you when needed for a specific moment. Pastor urged us not to compare or copy someone else’s gifting but to embrace the unique way God has designed you to serve. The goal of all spiritual gifts is to point people to Jesus and reflect God’s love and character.

Pastor said, there’s room for everyone’s gifts in the body of Christ. We come to church to be recharged and fed so we can go back into the world—our mountain of influence—and use our gifts to minister, teach, encourage, and lead others. Romans 12:6-9 offers a beautiful summary of how to use our gifts: “If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging… if it is giving, give generously… if you have leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously… And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.  Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them.”

Pastor closed by challenging us to practice using our gifts. The more you step out in faith, the easier it becomes to recognize and respond to the Holy Spirit’s leading. Taking a risk brings God’s power and your gift! Whether it’s prophecy, teaching, or serving, remember this: the ultimate purpose of your gift is to glorify God and bless others.

To listen to the entire sermon, CLICK HERE.