Using Your Gifts Is an Act of Worship by Rick Warren

“My Father is glorified and honored by this, when you bear much fruit” (John 15:8a AMP).

When you use the gifts that God has given you, it is an act of worship.

What makes God smile? Some people think God only smiles when you’re praying or singing or going to church. The truth is, God smiles when you use the gifts that he’s given you. When you’re doing what you were wired and shaped to do, God says, “That’s so cool! I created them to do that!”

There’s a memorable moment in the movie Chariots of Fire, when Olympic runner Eric Liddell said, “When I run, I feel God’s pleasure.” God shaped some people to run. He shaped others to ride bikes, drive fast cars, or surf. They’re just good at it. I think when God looks at them, he says, “That is so cool! I made the wave. I made the surfer. This is cool.” You don’t have to always be doing something “spiritual” to bring God glory.

The Bible says, “My Father is glorified and honored by this, when you bear much fruit” (John 15:8a AMP). When you use your gifts correctly, God gets the glory. And you certainly can’t please God with gifts you don’t have. God doesn’t expect you to be talented or gifted at everything. He just wants you to use what he’s given you.

In the Bible, the word “joy” and the word “gift” actually come from the same Greek word. It’s the word for “grace.” When you use your spiritual gifts, it brings joy to God, and it brings joy to you. God goes, “You’re doing what I created you to do.” And you go, “This feels good!” The greatest feeling in the world comes from using your gifts for God’s purpose because it works, and you know it, and you enjoy it.

There’s no feeling in the world like doing something for God’s glory, knowing that you’re doing what he made you to do. It is the greatest thrill in the world! If you haven’t ever felt that, discover and develop the spiritual gifts that are in you so you can enjoy your life and bring glory to God.

Talk It Over

What do you believe God has created you to do?
How are you using your SHAPE — your spiritual gifts, heart and passions, abilities, personality, and experiences — to worship God?
Describe a time in your life when you were using your gifts to serve others. What was that like?