Associates in Christian Counseling

Identity and Gifts

In order to see ourselves, we must look in a mirror. In terms of our identity, our family of origin is our first mirror reflecting who we are. As we grow, our “mirrors” expand to include others who become significant in our lives. None of these mirrors offer a perfect reflection. Some will be confining. Others will be misleading. Christ is the only true mirror. In Scripture He is often described as light. His light reveals us to ourselves in new ways on our journey.

Near the end of the thirteenth chapter of 1st Corinthians, Paul describes the journey from being a child to being a man. He describes the change in talking, thinking, and reasoning. He describes a journey and how the reflection in the mirror changes from a dim one to one of great clarity. Just as we have watched children grow from babes to adults, our spiritual journey is much the same. Our thoughts change; our brokenness heals; and at some point we feel the desire to reach out to others, to give as it has been given to us. The question then becomes “What can I do?”

Many churches today offer spiritual gift assessments as a way to encourage their members to service. Some are available on the internet. These inventories may help to clarify or confirm our gifts. As we grow, our understanding of our gifts may become more balanced, but just as with our personality traits, new ones will rarely appear. Spiritual maturity simply allows us to use them more effectively. Just as the creative impulsive child of today may grow into the entrepreneur of tomorrow, so our new heart to serve will be fine-tuned by the Holy Spirit.

Experience provides opportunities for growth and discernment. We cannot simply read about sailing to know how to sail. We have to get into the boat, untie it from the dock, and put our knowledge into practice. The same is true with God’s gifting to us. Knowing what they are is good. Discovering how to use them is greater. Putting them to use is the greatest.

In God’s economy, nothing is wasted—no mountain top or valley experience, no success or failure. All things reach their full potential in Christ but stepping out is required to reach that potential. It is our goal as Christian counselors to assist people on their journey when they need help in order to see to it that “no one misses the grace of God.”

If you need help in healing wounds or guidance in restoring relationships,
call 336-896-0065, ext. 203, to make an appointment today.