You asked, and we answered! Over the next few weeks we will be sharing some of the questions that were submitted during our 2022 Harvest Women’s Retreat, and the answers from some of the women in our church.
Just because we are older doesn’t mean it’s too late to use the gifts God has given us. I’ve found that in different seasons of my life, I have been able to use different gifts. Maybe you think you have wasted your gifts, when really, you have just been using gifts doing the things that you were called on to do at that point in your life. For example, as a mom, I used the gifts of administration or service many times, organizing my children’s activities and providing for their needs. Now that my kids are grown, I have the chance to apply those gifts to other areas of life, like church or volunteer work. So, my gifts were not wasted when they were used in my family. I believe that spiritual gifts are useful in all areas of our lives, not just at church.
Sometimes getting a little older gives me more time to practice using some gifts that I hadn’t explored before. Being older brings with it lots of experiences that have (hopefully) developed some wisdom. Because I have been through some things in life, I can offer encouragement and empathize with women who are just now experiencing them. I have testimonies that I can share. I have had a longer relationship with the Holy Spirit to understand some things that I did not understand earlier in life.
If you do not know what your gifts are, look at the things you are drawn to. Do you love to give to people? Do you enjoy organizing things? Do you enjoy working with children or babies? Do you thrive on Bible study or telling others about Jesus? What you enjoy can give you a clue to your spiritual gifts. Also, ask your best friend or your husband what they see that you are good at. They can often recognize your giftedness when you have overlooked it.
If you think you might have a gift but are not sure, why not just try it? Step out of your comfort zone and take a chance – just once. You might be surprised at the outcome. Take a turn at serving in Kid City. Offer to help by cooking or serve on the greeter team. Offer to pray for people and write them an encouraging note. If something grabs your interest, go for it! You may think that your gift is not an important one, but EVERY gift is worth celebrating. And it’s never too late to get started.
We would like to thank Sheri Warren for answering this question.
Women's Ministry 