Administration

Administration (Serving Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to steer the body toward the accomplishment of God-given goals and directives by planning, organizing, and supervising others.

The divine enablement to understand what makes an organization function and the special ability to plan and execute procedures that accomplish the goals of the ministry.

People with this gift:
- develop strategies or plans to reach identified goals
- assist ministries to become more effective and efficient
- create order out of organizational chaos
- manage or coordinate a variety of responsibilities to accomplish a task
- organize people, tasks, or events.
(See also Leadership)

1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Luke 14:28-30

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

There are administrative details that need to be worked out all the time here at HFM.  All the way from organizing a major community dinner to organizing where the chairs will go for a baby shower.  The gift of organization can be used at all levels of significance and is useful every time people come together.   The gift of administration is useful to reduce stress and chaos so that the other members of the Body of Christ can do their jobs better.

One of the dangers of the gift of administration is for the person with that gift to acquire a bossy or arrogant attitude.   This is not only destructive, but actually serves to disintegrate the Body of Christ.   So a person with this gift MUST be extremely sensitive to how they come across to others and their own pride and selfish agendas.  Otherwise, the Body of Christ is better off without them than to have a carnal use of this gift.

Apostle

Apostle (Leadership Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to exercise general leadership or oversight over a number of churches with an authority in spiritual matters, which is readily recognized. In the strict sense this gift was confined to the twelve apostles. The New Testament does, however, give this title to a number of others, e.g. Romans 16:7 and Acts 14:14 . It is the gift whereby the Spirit appoints certain Christians to lead, inspire, and develop the churches of God by the proclamation and the teaching of true doctrine.

The divine ability to start and oversee the development of new churches or ministry structures.

People with this gift:
- pioneer and establish new ministries or churches
- adapt to different surroundings by being culturally sensitive and aware
- desire to minister to unreached people in other communities or countries
- have responsibilities to oversee ministries or groups of churches
- demonstrate authority and vision for the mission of the church.

1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Ephesians 4:11-16
2 Corinthians 12:12
Matthew 10:1-8
Acts 2:42-44

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

In the FM church those who possess this gift are usually superintendents or bishops.  So, if in fact you possess this gift, God may have plans for you to become a pastor and then one day a leader in that church who oversees other churches.   But, in the mean time, the attributes and nature of this gift can be cultivated in all sorts of ministry opportunities that would look a lot like administrative duties.  But, none the less, could be used on a local level until God puts you in a position over many churches.

Celibacy

Celibacy – The special ability God gives to some to voluntarily remain single without regret and with the ability to maintain control over sexual impulses so as to serve the Lord without distraction.

Celibacy is a state that (by God’s grace) has learned to live without all of the biological, social, and emotional needs built into man or woman by God. Only God is able to overrule instincts and by grace control them so that a person can remain unmarried.

Being unmarried is not necessarily the same as having this gift. Those who have this gift remain single because they feel they can serve the Lord better that way.

People with this gift:
- remain single so as to be able to devote themselves completely to ministry
- have other gifts that they are able to use more effectively because they are celibate.

1 Corinthians 7:1-9
1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Matthew 19:10-12

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Those with his gift usually remain single so they can become a more effective and useful  servant to the church.   Single people do have more time to give to the Lord because of the obligations married people have to one another as the Apostle Paul reveals in 1 Corinthians 7.

Craftsmanship / Artist

Craftsmanship / Artist – The gift that gives the believer the skill to create artistic expressions that produce a spiritual response of strength and inspiration. Skilled Craft – the gift that enables a believer to create, build, maintain, or repair items used within the church.

The divine enablement to creatively design and/or construct items to be used for ministry or the divine enablement to communicate God’s truth through a variety of art forms.

People with this gift:
- work with wood, cloth, paint, metal, glass, and other raw materials
- make things which increase the effectiveness of other’s ministries
- design and build tangible items and resources for ministry use
- work with different kinds of tools and are skilled with their hands
- use the arts to communicate God’s truth
- develop and use artistic skills such as drama, writing, art, music, dance, etc.
- use variety and creativity to captivate people and cause them to consider Christ’s message
- challenge people’s perspective of God through various forms of the arts
- demonstrate fresh ways to express the Lord’s ministry and message.

Exodus 28:3-4
Exodus 31:1-11
Exodus 35:30-35

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

There are always things that need to be maintained, produced, created or improved that need an artisan’s touch and eye.   If you have an artistic flare, that is given to you by God.  Not everyone enjoys that gift . . . especially your pastor.   There are all sorts of things that would require the use of a craftsman or artisan to produce.  Presently Juli Wahtola (bulletin covers and promotional fliers), Dean and Maxine Scoville (Flower box and landscaping), Marv & Sue Shull (Landscaping) Marg Baxter (table and other Decorations) and Pat Gordon (sanctuary decorations) use their art gifts to serve the church on a regular basis.  Every time we do a special function here at HFM (Community dinners, special services, Halloween, Free Fest) we can use craftsmen and artisans skills and talents.  If you are interested in the possibilities of implementing your gift, set up at time to meet with Pastor Keith, Juli, Pat or any other ministry head and discuss possibilities of using your gift for the Body of Christ.

Discernment / Distinguishing Spirits

Discernment / Distinguishing of Spirits – The special ability God gives to some to know with assurance whether certain behavior or teaching is from God, Satan, human error, or human power.

The divine enablement to distinguish between truth and error, to discern the spirits, differentiating between good and evil, right and wrong.

People with this gift:
- distinguish truth from error, right from wrong, pure motives from impure
- identify deception in others with accuracy and appropriateness
- determine whether a word attributed to God is authentic
- recognize inconsistencies in a teaching, prophetic message, or interpretation
- are able to sense the presence of evil.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
1 John 4:1-6
1 Corinthians 2:9-16
2 Chronicles 2:12
Psalms 119:125
Proverbs 3:21
1 Kings 3:9
Hebrews 5:14

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

As I mentioned earlier during a Sunday morning message, this gift could save HFM a whole lot of grief and heartache.   Presently we get at least a call a week (sometimes as many as 5) asking for financial assistance.   It would be really nice to have someone to whom we could direct those requests.   Someone who would screen the person making the request so we could know if their need was legit or not.  A person with the gift of discernment would be able to do that for us.  This gift is also useful in heading off leaders or influential people before they can do too much damage because of insincerity or heretical thinking.

The problem with the gift of discernment is that if the person becomes obsessed with unforgiveness or pride, the gift can quickly become an excuse to oppress or hinder others.   People with the gift of discernment must also be quick to discern their own sinfulness and proclivity to pride and arrogance or the gift of discernment can actually fracture the Body of Christ rather than assist and encourage it.

Encouragement

Encouragement (Speaking Gift) – The special ability God gives some to offer comfort, words of encouragement, hope, and reassurance to discouraged, weak, or troubled Christians in such a way that they are consoled.

People with this gift:
- come to the side of those who are discouraged to reassure them and give them hope
- emphasize God’s promises and confidence in his will.

(See also Exhortation)

Romans 12:6-8
Titus 1:9
Acts 11:23-24
Acts 14:21-22
1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Personally, I think this is one of the most valuable gifts the Body of Christ can possess.   Here at HFM, we have a lot of very sensitive people who are easily discouraged, depressed or feel defeated by Satan, the world or their own conscience.  The gift of encouragement helps others to pick up the pieces and keep on keeping on.   This is one gift that can be used anywhere, anytime, on anybody.  Everyone in the Body of Christ can use encouragement.  And you might never know, who you encouraged so that they could teach one more Sunday School class, or lead singing one more Sunday, or could make one more call on a shut-in.  The gift of encouragement empowers others in the Body of Christ to keep going when they feel like giving up.

One negative aspect of the gift of encouragement is that, if abused, the gift can easily enable people and prevent them from growing up and becoming mature, complete and lacking in nothing.  We want people to trust in Jesus.   And the person with the gift of encouragement is at their best when they direct people to see the encouragement that comes from Jesus.

Evangelism / Evangelist

Evangelism / Evangelist – The special ability God gives to some to proclaim the Gospel of salvation effectively so that people respond to the promises of Christ through conversion to Christianity.

The divine enablement to effectively communicate the gospel to unbelievers so they respond in faith and move toward discipleship.

People with this gift:
- communicate the message of Christ with clarity and conviction
- seek out opportunities to talk to unbelievers about spiritual matters
- challenge unbelievers to faith and to become fully devoted followers of Christ
- adapt their presentation of the gospel to connect with the individual’s needs
- seek opportunities to build relationships with unbelievers.

Ephesians 4:11-16
Matthew 28:16-20
Acts 2:36-40
Acts 8:5-6
Acts 14:21
Acts 8:26-40
2 Timothy 4:5

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Because your pastor stinks in regard to the gift of evangelism, this gift is desperately needed here at HFM.  People with this gift are able to direct any conversation towards challenging the other person to contemplate giving their life to Christ.   Your pastor does a decent job of relaying Scriptural truth and Biblical doctrine, but he certainly lacks the gift of evangelism.  If you have this gift, we can use you.   We have lots and lots of seekers here at HFM.   If you have the gift of evangelism, we have work for you to do right now.

The negative side of this gift is when a person with the gift of evangelism no longer regards the other person’s relationship with Jesus as something that must be personally accepted by faith and regards them as only a potential notch in their belts or mark on their success chart.  Then, their method and spirit of their evangelism can actually work to create obstacles to the Gospel rather than bridges.

Exhortation

Exhortation (Speaking Gift) – The special ability God gives some to help strengthen weak, faltering, and fainthearted Christians in such a way that they are motivated to be all God wants them to be.

The ability to help others reach their full potential by means of encouraging, challenging, comforting, and guiding.

The divine enablement to present truth so as to strengthen or urge to action those who are discouraged or wavering in their faith.

People with this gift:
- come to the side of those who are weak in spirit to strengthen them
- challenge or confront others to trust and hope in the promises of God
- urge others to action by applying Biblical truth
- offers advise, an outline for a solution, or a program for progress
- motivates others to grow.

(see also Encouragement)

1 Timothy 5:1-2
Hebrews 3:13 (King James Version)
Hebrews 13:22
1 Thessalonians 5:14 (King James version)

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Personally, I see very little difference between this gift and the gift of encouragement.   The only difference that I can see is that the person with the gift of exhortation tends to do it on an intellectual/spiritual level by appealing to God’s Word, rather than strictly on an emotional or social level which usually is the mode that the person with the gift of encouragement uses.  Again, as I stated in the paragraph about encouragement, this gift is desperately needed here at HFM.  Especially in regard to pointing to the encouragement that God’s word gives us if we would just follow His ways and His will.

Again, as I stated under encouragement, one negative aspect of the gift of exhortation is that, if abused, this gift can easily enable people and prevent them from growing up and becoming mature, complete and lacking in nothing.  We want people to trust in Jesus.   And the person with the gift of exhortation is at their best when they direct people to see the encouragement that comes from Jesus.

Faith

Faith – The special conviction God gives to some to be firmly persuaded of God’s power and promises to accomplish His will and purpose and to display such a confidence in Him and His Word that circumstances and obstacles do not shake that conviction.

The divine enablement to act on God’s promises with confidence and unwavering belief in God’s ability to fulfill his purposes.

People with this gift:
- believe the promises of God and inspire others to do the same
- act in complete confidence of God’s ability to overcome obstacles
- demonstrate an attitude of trust in God’s will and his promises
- advance the cause of Christ because they go forward when others will not
- ask God for what is needed and trust him for his provision.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
Mark 5:25-34
Acts 27:21-25
Hebrews 11
Romans 4:18-21

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Wow, this gift is probably the most needed and yet at the same time, the hardest to explain how to implement.  People with this gift encourage, exhort, reprove, and challenge others to hang on tightly and not to let go of the promises of God when the conditions for those promises have been fulfilled.   We have several situations right now where leadership could really use some encouragement, exhortation and be challenged to hang in there.  When a person with the gift of faith demonstrates by example, the abundant life God assures us of if we would just trust in the Lord with all our hearts and not lean on our own understanding but in all our ways acknowledge Him, then HE will certainly make our paths straight.

The abuse of this gift can be a disaster if someone falsely tells another member of the Body of Christ that they need to hang on to the promise of God that have, in fact, NOT been promised by God.   The worse abuse of the gift of faith is telling someone they will be healed when God has not said specifically that the person in question will be healed.   That not only destroys the faith of the person involved, but also everyone else who was connected to them as well.  A person with the gift of faith MUST KNOW what God has promised and the conditions for that promise to be fulfilled.

Giving

Giving  (Serving Gift) – The gift that enables a believer to recognize God’s blessings and to respond to those blessings by generously, sacrificially, and cheerfully giving of one’s resources (time, talent, and treasure) without thought of return.

The  divine enablement to contribute money and resources to the work of the Lord with cheerfulness and liberality. People with this gift do not ask, “How much money do I need to give to God?” but “How much money do I need to live on?”

People with this gift:
- manage their finances and limit their lifestyle in order to give as much of their resources as possible
- support the work of ministry with sacrificial gifts to advance the Kingdom
- meet tangible needs that enable spiritual growth to occur
- provide resources, generously and cheerfully, trusting God for His provision
- may have a special ability to make money so that they may use it to further God’s work.

Romans 12:6-8
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
2 Corinthians 8:2-5
Mark 12:41-44
Matthew 6:3-4

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

This gift is most useful because it takes care of legitimate needs as they come to the Body of Christ.  And we certainly have lots of needs right now at HFM.   The person with the gift of giving sees the benefit of financial resources for the Body of Christ and works hard to provide those resources and makes their own money work hard so that there is more to do ministry with in the future.  There are all sorts of financial, resource and material needs that we are trying to satisfy.  But, we simply lack the resources to meet them all.  If you have this gift, we could use you to step up and make available what you have that God has given so we can meet these needs.

An abuse of this gift of giving is to enable those you are helping.  There have been several times in my ministry, when I purposely DID NOT assist someone with their financial needs because they were living in sin and to support them financially would have been to support their sinful lifestyle.   A person with the gift of giving tends to have a compassionate heart and therefore must be sensitive to the fact that they may want to help everyone, but not everyone should be helped.   Sometimes the best therapy we can offer a fallen member of the Body of Christ is to allow them to hit bottom and wake up to the fact that they have been disobedient to God and therefore need to repent and change their ways.

Healing

Healing (Sign Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to serve as a human instrument through whom it pleases Him to cure illness and restore health (physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually) apart from the use of natural means.

The divine enablement to be God’s means for restoring people to wholeness.

People with this gift:
- demonstrate the power of God
- bring restoration to the sick and diseased
- authenticate a message from God through healing
- use it as an opportunity to communicate a Biblical truth and to see God glorified
- pray, touch, or speak words that miraculously bring healing to one’s body.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Acts 3:1-10
Acts 14:8-10
James 5:14-16
Luke 9:1-2

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

ARE YOU KIDDING?!?  Have you looked at our prayer sheet lately?   If you have this gift and have been hording it, please do not do this any longer.  There are lots of people with lots of medical/physical problems that could really use your healing touch right now.

As with all gifts, there is a real danger with this one to think (after God has granted you success and healing) that the gift lies in you.   It does not.  It is a gift of the Holy Spirit.  God only uses you because He wants to.   Healing someone is pretty heady stuff.  Don’t allow the success God has done through you to go to your head.  And certainly do not tell someone that YOU can heal them.  You cannot.  Only God heals.  And He does it when and how and to whomever He desires.   Please remember this if and when God grants you the healing gift.

Helps / Serving

Helps / Serving (Serving Gift) – The gift that enables a believer to work gladly behind the scenes in order that God’s work is fulfilled. The special ability God gives to some to serve the church in a supporting roll or to invest their talents in the life and ministry of other members of the body enabling them to increase their effectiveness.

The divine enablement to accomplish practical and necessary tasks which free-up, support, and meet the needs of others.

People with this gift:
- serve behind the scenes whenever needed to support the gifts and ministries of others (without having to be asked)
- see the tangible and practical things to be done and enjoy doing them
- sense God’s purpose and pleasure in meeting every day responsibilities
- attach spiritual value to practical service
- enjoy knowing that they are freeing up others to do what God has called them to do.
- would rather do a job than find someone else to do it.

1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Romans 16:1-2
Acts 9:36
Mark 15:40-41
Galatians 6:2
Romans 12:6-8
1 Peter 4:11
Philippians 2:19-23
Luke 22:24-27
John 13:14

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

One thing about this gift, it is always needed.  And the really definitive thing about this gift is . . .  the more you possess the gift of service, the more you will see that you are needed.  In fact, those who possess this gift at the highest level, never ask me what needs to be done and never wonder if they should do it.  They intuitively know what needs to be done, what they need to do to satisfy that need and whether or not they have the authority to undertake the job or not.  Those with the gift of helps/service, see a need and fill it.  They don’t need to be asked, they don’t need to be shown, they are so servant minded that they do all of that work themselves so they are not a burden on others in the Body of Christ so the other members can do their  jobs.

The negative side of the gift of helps/service is when they fail to understand what the rest of the Body is doing and their responsibilities.   Those with the gift of helps can be so focused on doing what needs to be done that they can easily step on the toes of others whose responsibility it is to do the job in the first place.   Those with the gift of helps/service need to be aware of how they may be doing others a disservice by being of service.

Hospitality

Hospitality (Serving Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to provide an open home and warm welcome to those in need of food, lodging, and fellowship. It involves a readiness to invite strangers to your home (or church) for the sake of the Gospel.  DINNER FOR SEVEN!

The divine enablement to care for people by providing fellowship, food, and shelter.

People with this gift:
- provide an environment where people feel valued and cared for
- meet new people and help them to feel welcomed  - most needed at HFM
- create a safe and comfortable setting where relationships can develop – see immediately above
- seek ways to connect people together into meaningful relationships – again needed here at HFM
- set people at ease in unfamiliar surroundings. – yes yes yes!

1 Peter 4:9-10
Romans 12:9-13
Acts 16:14-15
Luke 10:38
Hebrews 13:1-2

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

We run through a lot of new people here at HFM in the course of a year.   Somewhere around 50 households, which represents around 100-150 people.   Now, if they don’t like the pastor or the worship service or the message, there is nothing that those with the gift of hospitality can do about that.  But, not all our visitors do not come back to HFM because of something they did not like in the worship service.  Believe it or not, there are a significant number of people who like the worship service here at HFM, but do not regularly attend here because they are not made to feel welcome.  Also, every year, we lose at least a handful of households that have attended here for years.  But, because they no longer feel wanted, needed, or welcome here, they leave. That is where you as one gifted with the gift of hospitality need to do your job.  Your pastor is already working 60-70 hours per week doing what he is gifted to do.  He cannot make all of these relationship connections.  Those with the gift of hospitality MUST.

I would like to warn you though, that if you find it a chore to greet people, if you find it work to talk to them, if you discover that everyone to whom you try to extend hospitality never comes back to HFM again, you probably do not have the gift of hospitality, no matter how badly you might want it.

Another aspect of the gift of hospitality is welcoming people into your home.  Did you know that two of the leading churches in the Hillsdale area that attract college students are over 15 miles away from the college.  And yet week after week college students take the time, expense and mileage to travel to these churches because they have a number of people who are very effective in exhibiting the gift of hospitality.  Probably the most viable, and time proven way to church growth is through the gift of hospitality.  HFM has those who are using their gifts effectively; but, not nearly enough to keep up with all the needs.

Intercession / Prayer

Intercession / Prayer (Serving Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to pray for extended periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent and specific answers to their prayers to a degree much greater than that which is expected of the average Christian.

The divine enablement to consistently pray on behalf of and for others, seeing frequent and specific results.

People with this gift:
- feel compelled to earnestly pray on behalf of someone or some cause
- have a daily awareness of the spiritual battles being waged and pray
- are convinced God moves in direct response to prayer – yes, yes, yes
- pray in response to the leading of the spirit, whether they understand it or not
- exercise authority and power for the protection of others and the equipping of them to serve.

Ephesians 6:18
1 Timothy 2:1-2
1 Kings 13:6
Luke 11:1-10
Matthew 6:6-15
Mark 11:22-25
James 5:14-16
Colossians 4:12-13
1 Thessalonians 3:10

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

The more I am involved in ministry the more I am convinced that God generally moves and acts most consistently and effectively in churches where there is a core group of people praying for God to move and act.   We can never be effective and successful doing ministry, unless and/or until we have a core praying for us.   This gift is totally behind the scenes, must ask and beseech God for wisdom, discernment, direction and guidance for our leadership.  It is a gift that can be done anywhere, by anyone at anytime, but here at HFM we have regularly scheduled times for prayer and intercession.  They are as follows:

Sunday, 8:20-8:25 AM before first service outside the Pastor’s office door

Sunday, 10:40-10:45 AM before second service outside the Pastor’s office door.

Wednesday, 8-9 AM in the Fireside Room

Wednesday  7:00-7:15 PM with the Adult Bible Study group

Plus, any other time or place that you would like to pray on your own or with a group.  We can use all the prayer you can offer up.

Knowledge

Knowledge (Speaking Gift): The special gift whereby the Spirit enables certain Christians to understand in an exceptional way the great truths of God’s Word and to make them relevant to specific situations in the church. Also, the desire to seek out and learn as much about the Bible as possible through gathering much information and the analysis of that data.

The divine enablement to bring truth to the body through a revelation or Biblical insight.

People with this gift:
- receive truth which enables them to better serve the body
- search the scriptures for insight, understanding, and truth
- gain knowledge which at times was not attained by natural means
- have an unusual insight or understanding that serves the church
- organize information for teaching and practical use.
(See also Wisdom)

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
2 Chronicles 1:7-12
Colossians 2:2-3
2 Corinthians 11:6
Daniel 2:20-21
Proverbs 2:6
Proverbs 9:10
Psalms 119:66
Jeremiah 3:15

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

I’m going to be a little uncomfortable speaking of the gift of knowledge as defined above, as I am more comfortable speaking of this gift as defined above as the gift of prophecy.   But, if you possess this gift, as defined above, HFM can use you to teach a Sunday School class, lead a Small Group study, or just help those who are struggling with a certain spiritual issue to gain clearer insight and wisdom from God’s Word and what the Bible has to say about the particular issues with which they are struggling.    You don’t need a formal setting to really help the Body of Christ when you possess this gift.  It merely takes applying what God has given you to those who have need for the information or knowledge that you either possess or know how to resource.

The negative side of this gift is when people with the gift of knowledge (or those who think they have this gift) stick their noses into people’s business when they are not wanted or invited.   You must use great discretion when you apply this gift to insure that you are not needlessly offending members of the Body of Christ and therefore doing more harm than good.

Leadership

Leadership (Serving Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to set goals in accordance with God’s purpose and to communicate these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish these goals for the glory of God.

The divine enablement to cast vision, motivate, and direct people to harmoniously accomplish the purposes of God.

People with this gift:
- provide direction for God’s people or ministry
- motivate others to perform to the best of their abilities
- present the “big picture” for others to see
- model the values of the ministry
- take responsibility and establish goals.
(See also Administration)

Romans 12:6-8
Hebrews 13:7
Hebrews 13:17

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

We always need leaders.  We need leaders for special events, for missions, for small groups, for committees, for special tasks or projects, for nearly everything that takes place here at HFM, we need a leader.   Leaders are able to get people to cooperate together to get done what needs to get done so the Body of Christ can be in a better position than before.  Right now, we could use a leader who would be willing to lead a mission trip in cooperation with one of our FM missionaries, a leader who would be willing to organize and accomplish several special projects, as well as lots of smaller projects.

The best test to know for sure if you have the gift of leadership is to ask yourself this question:  Is anyone following you?  If not, then either your gift of leadership needs a lot of fine tuning or else you do not possess this gift after all.

Leaders get done what needs to get done.  They are more concerned about success in the project or mission than they are with getting any credit.  What they enjoy most is being able to employ the gifts of others to see a project or mission through.

The gift of leadership gone awry is when leaders take advantage of others (Ezek 34), lead only for selfish motives (Absalom), or (worse yet); lead others to do things that are destructive to the Body of Christ (those written against by the Apostle Paul in his letters).  I have actually seen this happen several times.  And it is one of the most painful experiences I can recall in my years in ministry.

Mercy / Compassion

Mercy / Compassion (Serving Gift) – The special gift whereby the Spirit enables certain Christians to feel exceptional empathy and compassion for those who are suffering (physically, mentally, or emotionally) so as to feel genuine sympathy for their misery, speaking words of compassion, but more so caring for them with acts of love that help alleviate their distress.

The divine enablement to cheerfully and practically help those who are suffering or are in need by putting compassion into action.

People with this gift:
- focus upon alleviating the sources of pain or discomfort in suffering people – Help!
- address the needs of the lonely and forgotten – much needed here at HFM
- express love, grace, and dignity to those facing hardships and crisis – Help!
- serve in difficult or unsightly circumstances and do so cheerfully
- concern themselves with individual or social issues that oppress people.

Romans 12:6-8
Luke 7:12-15
Luke 10:30-37
Matthew 20:29-34
Matthew 25:34-40
Mark 9:41
Matthew 5:7

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

The gift of mercy/compassion is much needed here at HFM because we have many, many people who are in need of this gift.   If you ever want to know to whom you could extend mercy or compassion, simply look at the prayer sheet from week to week and you will discover, at minimum, about 75 people could use the compassion and encouragement that this gift offers.  If you are looking for a formal way to express this gift, I would encourage you to contact Deannie Gaberdiel and she will assist you in getting plugged in.  But, there is no need for you to be a part of a formal organization to extend mercy or compassion.  In fact, I am convinced that the most effective compassion ministries act spontaneously.  That is, the minute they see a need, and realize they have the time, resources or energy to satisfy or at least, address that need; they do!

Those with this gift must make sure that they are building up the Body of Christ and actually promoting the agenda of the Kingdom.  One of the most serious problems I see in regard to abuses among those with the gift of mercy/compassion, is that those who possess this gift fail to allow those who are suffering as a result of sin or disobedience to learn from their mistakes. In other words there is a time that its is appropriate and needed for a person NOT to be helped so they can learn from their mistakes and not continue in the sinful trend or pattern they presently live in.   You don’t give a child a candy bar to keep them from crying when they are crying because they have just touched a hot skillet.  All you are doing at that point is reinforcing the behavior to touch hot skillets.  This is not only dangerous, but counter intuitive to Kingdom building.

Miracles

Miracles (Sign Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to serve as a human intermediary through whom He pleases to perform acts of supernatural power that are recognized by others to have altered the ordinary course of nature and authenticated the divine commission.

People with this gift:
- speak God’s truth and may have it authenticated by an accompanying miracle
- express confidence in God’s faithfulness and ability to manifest Christ’s presence
- bring the ministry and message of Jesus Christ with power
- claim God to be the source of miracles and glorify the Lord
- represent Christ and through this gift, point people to a relationship with Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Mark 16:17-18
Acts 9:36-42
Acts 20:9-12
Hebrews 2:4
Romans 15:17-19
Acts 8:13
Acts 19:11-12

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

If you possess this gift, we could sure use a couple of miracles around here.   I do not possess this gift.  Nor, have I ever been closely associated with anyone who legitimately manifests this gift.  Although I know God still empowers people to have this gift, I do not know much about it and cannot counsel you as to how to express it.  All I can say is that our culture looks upon this gift with skepticism and doubt.   Therefore, to honor God with this gift, You MUST express it with humility, honestly, sincerity and giving all glory to God.  After all, you would not have this gift if it were not for God.

Make sure in expressing this gift that you do not take credit yourself for this gift.  There is a real problem that develops when this doesn’t happen.  And all of the fallout from a self-centered and self-promoting attitude serves only to destroy, rather than build up the Body of Christ.

Missionary

Missionary (Leadership Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to minister whatever other spiritual gifts they have in another culture.

Those with this gift find it easy or exciting to adjust to a different culture or community. Missionaries find great joy working with minorities, people of other countries, or those with other distinct cultural differences. Those with this gift have a stronger-than-average desire to be a part of the fulfillment of the Great Commission around the world.

People with this gift:
- have an intense spirit of unease at the thought of all the unsaved people in the world
- adapt themselves and core Biblical principles to different surroundings by being culturally sensitive and aware
- have the ability to reach out to people groups of a different ethnicity, language, or cultural background
- can establish meaningful relationships with people of other nationalities or cultures
- desire to minister to unreached people in other communities or countries.

Ephesians 3:6-8
Mark 16:15
Acts 1:8
Acts 13:2-5
Acts 22:21
Romans 10:14-15
1 Corinthians 9:19-23

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Obviously, the easiest way to utilize this gift would be to go on a mission trip or obtain a mission visa and work in another country sharing the good News of what Christ has accomplished for all of us.   And if we can assist you to do this, we would love to help you use this gift in this way.  Simply talk to Juli Wahtola and see what she can do to give you some guidance or who to contact to help you give expression to this gift.

But there is a more local application of this gift.  That is to work with people who have a different cultural background than we do, right here in Hillsdale County.  Believe it or not, there are many different cultures right here in Hillsdale County in which a person with the gift of being a missionary could find expression.  Think about establishing or promoting a mission to the elderly, the skateboarders, the very poor, those who are not part of the cultural mainstream here in Hillsdale.   There is actually a whole unique culture in some of our subsidized housing.  Think about the possibilities and whether or not God is calling you to this kind of work.

The negative side of the gift of missionaries is that sometimes they are so culturally alert to those who are culturally foreign to them that they actually begin to fail to realize how they can relate to their sending or supporting culture.  If in fact, you do something with another culture, do not forget who is supporting you and how to relate to them so that your support base can be maintained and remain healthy.

Music

Music – The gift that gives a believer the capability to present personal witness and inspiration to others through instrumental music, singing, or dancing.

The special gift whereby the Spirit enables certain Christians to praise God through music in such a way as to enhance the worship experience of other believers. It gives the believer the desire and capability to express personal faith and provide inspiration and comfort through the playing of a musical instrument, singing, or dancing. The spiritual aspect of the gift is revealed as the gift bearer gives witness to love and praise for the Lord, and thus glorifies God. Those listening or watching become inspired to feel the presence and majesty of God when music, song, or dance uplifts their soul in a manner that brings them closer to their Lord.

People with this gift:
- sing or play a musical instrument quite well, and enjoy it
- have special joy singing praises to God, either alone or with other people
- feel secure in the fact that their musical ability will be of benefit to other people with whom they come in contact
- can use their musical ability to help and inspire others to worship God
- see that their singing or instrument playing is a spiritual encouragement for others.

1 Samuel 16:14-23 1 Corinthians 14:26
Psalm 33:1-3 Psalm 96:1-2
Psalm 100:1-2 Psalm 149:3
Psalm 150:1-6 Colossians 3:16
2 Chronicles 5:12-13 2 Samuel 6:14-15

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

We are always in need of quality musicians to help facilitate congregational singing in worship, as well as to offer special music for the offertory and other events and/or elements in worship. If you have a musical talent and have not yet been asked to participate in worship, I would suggest that you begin by using your talents in the nursing homes.  Pastor Keith goes periodically to the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility to offer Sunday afternoon worship services.  He could really use your talents in that service.  Plus, it would be a safe way for him to be exposed to your talent so he could recommend (with confidence and sincerity) you to those who arrange for special music or organize the Praise teams . . . if in fact you possess an ability that merits your involvement in the Sunday morning worship experience here at HFM.

If you do not have any musically ability, and yet love music and want to find ministry expression for it, I would love to talk to you about a number of ideas I have on how you could use music to greatly enrich the lives of those in the Body of Christ by simply taking a ghetto blaster into a nursing home or into the home of a shut-in and playing music and making comment about the message of the songs you selected.   There is a ton of possibilities here that you could use and/or explore.

Pastor / Shepherd

Pastor / Shepherd – The special ability God gives to some to assume a long-term personal responsibility for leadership and the spiritual care, protection, guidance, and feeding (teaching) of a group of believers.

The divine enablement to nurture, care for, and guide people toward on-going spiritual maturity and becoming like Christ.

People with this gift:
- take responsibility to nurture the whole person in their walk with God
- provide guidance and oversight to a group of God’s people
- model with their life what it means to be a fully devoted follower of Jesus
- establish trust and confidence through long-term relationships
- lead and protect those within their span of care.

John 10:1-16
Acts 20:28
Ephesians 4:11-15
1 Timothy 3:1-7
2 Timothy 4:1-2
1 Timothy 4:11-16
1 Peter 5:1-4

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

You may be thinking, we already have a pastor.  Why do we need any more?   Actually, everyone who leads, directs and offers protection and security for those who are part of the Body of Christ are already Pastors or shepherds.  So, if in fact, you have this gift, even though we have a person with the title pastor already, there is a place for you.   Actually, every Small Group leader is a pastor.  Every Sunday School teacher is a pastor.  Every parent is a pastor.  Everyone who is responsible for the spiritual, physical and emotional well being of another is a pastor.  And we can  always use people who are gifted to care for and look out for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of others.  In fact, I occasionally call on others to make calls on those that I know who are really hurting and yet there is no way that I can take the time and make the call myself and stay true to my calling and the gifts that God has given me to use here at HFM.  So if you have this gift, I would encourage you to make contact with either Pastor Keith or Deannie Gaberdiel (as head of Dare to Care ministries) and let us know that you are interested in finding expression and/or confirmation for your gift of pastor.

Please understand that along with this gift comes a huge responsibility (see Psalm 23; Ezek 34 as well as 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus).   God holds pastors accountable to insure the well being and care of His sheep.  If you want to explore expression of this gift, please be prepared to sacrifice and make the needs of others of higher priority and concern than you own needs.
Poverty (voluntary)

Poverty (voluntary) – The special ability God gives to some to purposely live an impoverished lifestyle to serve and aid others with their material resources.

The special ability that God gives to some members of the body of Christ to renounce material comfort and luxury and adopt a personal lifestyle equivalent to those living at the poverty level in a given society in order to serve God more effectively.

People with this gift:
- will often choose to live among people who are considered poverty-stricken
- live at a poverty level although they have the means to live at a higher standard
- choose this lifestyle in order to minister more effectively to people through identification.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3
2 Corinthians 8:9
Acts 2:44-45
Acts 4:32-35

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Much the same as the gift of giving, this gift is most useful because it desires to meet legitimate needs as they come to the Body of Christ.  And we certainly have lots of needs right now at HFM.   The person with the gift of poverty sees the benefit of using financial resources for the Body of Christ and is willing to sacrifice personal comfort for meeting desperate needs.  There are all sorts of financial, resource and material needs that HFM is trying to satisfy.  But, we simply lack the resources to meet them all.  If you have this gift of poverty, you will find it attractive to give up your own personal conveniences to be able to meet the needs of others.

An abuse of this gift of poverty is to enable those you are helping.  There have been several times in my ministry, when I purposely DID NOT assist someone with their financial needs because they were living in sin and to support them financially would have been to support their sinful lifestyle.   A person with the gift of poverty tends to have a compassionate heart and therefore must be sensitive to the fact that they may want to help everyone, but not everyone should be helped.   Sometimes the best therapy we can offer a fallen member of the Body of Christ is to allow them to hit bottom and wake up to the fact that they have been disobedient to God and therefore need to repent and change their ways.   Also, if you want to pursue the gift of poverty, you MUST take into consideration other family members.  If you desire to live in poverty, and other members (who are dependent upon you) do not; then you must seriously look at your motives, heart and try and discover another way that you can pursue the development of your gift without imposing your convictions on other family members who do not share your position.  This is crucial to insure that you do not destroy the weak faith of your family member.  And the Lord knows that way too many relationships as well as the fragile faith of weaker family members has been destroyed because of over zealous Christians who railroad their weaker family members into a position they did not choose to be in.

Prophet / Prophecy

Prophet / Prophecy (Special Gift) – The special ability God gives to some to proclaim the Word of God with clarity and to apply it fearlessly with a view to the strengthening, encouragement, and comfort of believers and the convincing of unbelievers. The special gift whereby the Spirit empowers certain Christians to interpret and apply God’s revelation in a given situation.

The divine enablement to reveal truth and proclaim it in a timely and relevant manner for understanding, correction, repentance, or edification. There may be immediate or future implications.

People with this gift:
- expose sin or deception in others for the purpose of reconciliation
- speak a timely word from God causing conviction, repentance, and edification
- see truth that others often fail to see and challenge them to respond  - yes
- warn of God’s immediate or future judgment if there is no repentance – yes
- understand God’s heart and mind through experiences He takes them through.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
Romans 12:6-8
Ephesians 4:11-13
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Deuteronomy 18:18-22
1 Corinthians 14:1-5
1 Corinthians 14:24-25
1 Corinthians 14:30-33
1 Corinthians 14:37-40

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Every pastor (worth his salt) loves to have people in their congregation who possess this gift.  It is this gift that keeps the body of Christ out of trouble.  A prophet is one who speaks for God.  Who is not at all afraid to let others know exactly what God has to say about a particular subject, circumstance, or scenario.   This voice is desperately needed in our culture and in every church.  Please pray that pastor Keith possess this gift and is not ashamed or bashful to express it.  Though the gift of prophecy is usually a lonely and misunderstood gift, it is still much needed in our PC culture.   One with the gift of prophecy knows what God has to say and tells others what they need to know about any circumstance or issue in which the Lord has given them insight.

There are two major areas of abuse or error with the gift of prophecy.  First, the prophet, once they understand how lonely and misunderstood they can be conveying the Word of the Lord, can refuse to communicate it because of the rejection and loneliness they know will be associated with it.  The Lord is very clear, if you know what you need to communicate as a prophet, and you fail to communicate it to the audience to whom you were sent, then whatever punishment or judgment that will fall on them will come to you because you failed to communicate what God sent you to say.   You still want to have the gift of prophecy?  Second, many times prophets, because of the rejection they tend to face on a regular basis, can tend to become thick skinned and hard-hearted and stiff-necked.  This is wrong in the other direction.  This is where hanging around a person with the gift of compassion or encouragement can be very therapeutic.

Teaching / Teacher

Teaching / Teacher – The special ability God gives to some to explain the truths of the Word of God clearly and to apply them effectively so that those taught understand and learn. To instruct others in the Bible in a logical and systematic way so as to communicate pertinent information for true understanding and growth.

The divine enablement to understand, clearly explain, and apply the word of God causing greater Christ-likeness in the lives of listeners.

People with this gift:
- communicate Biblical truth that inspires greater obedience to the word
- challenge listeners simply and practically with the truths of scripture
- focus on changing lives by helping others understand the Bible better
- give attention to detail and accuracy
- prepare through extended times of study and reflection.

Ephesians 4:11-16
Romans 12:6-8
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Hebrews 5:12-14
Acts 18:24-28

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

We are currently in a real need for teachers.  Both in Sunday School classes and also in Small Group studies.  If you are not sure you possess the gift of teaching, I would highly recommend that you begin by teaching a class at a nursing home or with a group of friends.  These are safe places to get started and will offer you assurance and confirmation of your gift if in fact you possess the gift of teaching.  Just remember the warning that James gives teachers in James 3:1.  You are accountable before God for what you teach others.  There is great responsibility in being a teacher, but there are also great rewards.  We can use teachers right away if you possess this gift.

Tongues (interpreting)

Tongues (interpreting) – The special ability God gives to some translate the message of one who speaks in tongues.

If a tongue is spoken without an interpretation, the speaker is edified. If the tongue is interpreted, it is for the edification of the body.

People with this gift:
- express with an interpretation a word by the Spirit which edifies the Body
- enable the gift of tongues to build up the church by interpreting God’s message for the people.

(see also Tongues (speaking))

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
1 Corinthians 14:1-40

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

The only time this gift will be used here at HFM is in the presence of someone, who speaking within the context of a Body of Believers, speaks a word in tongues.  It is then that your gift needs to be employed.  Otherwise, the one speaking in tongues is commanded by God’s Word in 1 Cor 14, to remain silent so that the Body of Christ can receive an intelligible message from God and not a word that is spoken in a language that no one can understand.   As far as I know, this is the only gift that is dependent upon another engifted by God, in order for it to be used properly.

Tongues (speaking)

Tongues (speaking) – The special ability God gives to some to speak prayer or praise in a language they have never learned or to communicate a message from God to His people. The special ability God gives to some to speak in a language not previously learned so unbelievers can hear God’s message in their own language.

If a tongue is spoken without an interpretation, the speaker is edified. If the tongue is interpreted, it is for the edification of the body.

People with this gift:
- may receive a spontaneous message from God which is made known to His body through the gift of interpretation
- communicate a message given by God for the church (if there is someone to interpret)
- speak in a language they have never learned and do not understand
- worship the Lord with unknown words too deep for the mind to comprehend
- experience an intimacy with God which inspires them to serve and edify others
- speak in tongues as a private prayer language
- when used in a group setting, an interpretation must take place, or else the one speaking the tongue should remain silent.

(see also Tongues (interpreting))

1 Corinthians 12:7-11 1 Corinthians 12:28-31 1 Corinthians 14:1-40
Acts 10:44-46 Acts 19:1-7 Mark 16:17 Acts 2:1-12

Romans 8:26-27 1 Corinthians 13:1

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Please be aware, that the Apostle Paul, in 1 Cor 14, states that this gift is only to be used when accompanied with an interpreter.  There is nothing that should or can prevent a person from using and benefiting from this gift in private.  But, in that circumstance, it is of no benefit to the Body of Christ.  Paul makes clear that the gift of speaking in tongues should ONLY be employed to the benefit of the larger Body of Christ in the presence of someone who is engifted by the Holy Spirit with the speaker’s interpretation.  Otherwise, the one expressing the gift of tongues should remain silent so as not be a distraction or negative witness to the Body.  So, if you feel compelled to express this gift in the larger Body of Christ, please know that to continue without an interpreter is both a serious blemish on your spiritual integrity and disruptive to the Body of Christ.  But, those gifted with the gift of speaking in tongues who have an interpreter can greatly benefit the Body of Christ by the message that is manifestly evident as coming from God.

Probably the most negative abuse of the gift of speaking in tongues is that so many feel it is THE ONLY gift worth possessing; when, in fact, the Apostle Paul diminishes this gift as he does not do with any other gift.  It has been my experience and the experience of many of my mentors that those who possess this gift need to keep in mind humility, discretion and discernment.  Otherwise, I have seen more cases where this gift has been more disruptive and destructive than it has been beneficial.  This not only creates a negative attitude towards the gift of tongues but it is also a serious blemish on the reputation of the Holy Spirit as well.

Wisdom

Wisdom (Speaking Gift) – The gift that allows the believer to sort through opinions, facts, and thoughts in order to determine what solution would be best for the individual believer or the community of believers. The ability to apply knowledge to life in such a way as to make spiritual truths quite relevant and practical in proper decision making and daily life situations.

The special ability that God gives to certain members of the body of Christ to know the mind of the Holy Spirit in such a way as to receive insight into how knowledge may best be applied to specific needs arising in the body of Christ.

People with this gift:
- focus on the unseen consequences in determining the next steps to take
- receive an understanding of what is necessary to meet the needs of the body
- provide divinely given solutions in the midst of conflict and confusion
- hear the Spirit provide direction for God’s best in a given situation
- apply spiritual truth in specific and practical ways.
(See also Knowledge)

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
James 3:13-18
2 Chronicles 1:7-11
Acts 6:3-10
1 Corinthians 2:6-13
James 1:5-8
1 Kings 3:16-28

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

Chuck Colson exhibits this gift more than anyone else I know of today.  He can listen to an issue, cut through all of grey matter of that issue, and get to its heart quicker and more clearly than anyone I have ever known.  His Breakpoint radio show demonstrates this day after day after day.  And boy oh boy, could we use that gift around here.  We (the leadership here at HFM) are constantly dealing with multi-layered issues.  What we need is to get to the heart of the matter so we can make a God-honoring and righteous decision.  If you possess this gift, you will rise to the top when involved in group discussions.   Soon you will not need to find an outlet to express your gift, people will be knocking on your door seeking your counsel and advice on all sorts of things.  So if in fact, you possess this gift, my suggestion to you is to expose yourself to members of the Body of Christ here at HFM through Bible studies, small groups and other group meetings; so your wisdom and knowledge can be evidenced by all.  As they see your God given gift, they will discover what God has given to you and the rest will take care of itself.

The negative aspect of this gift is that those who possess it seem to forget Who gave them their gift and the fact that they are nothing except by God’s grace.  As wise as Solomon was, he soon forgot to follow His own advice and his many wives (whom he should have known was against what God commanded) led him astray.  So, if you possess the gift of wisdom, please understand that within this gift are the seeds of its own destruction (Wesley).

Writing

Writing – the gift that gives a believer the ability to express truth in a written form; a form that can edify, instruct and strengthen the community of believers.

The special God-given ability to formulate thoughts and ideas into meaningful written forms so that the reader will find courage, guidance, knowledge, or edification through the words shared with them.

People with this gift:
- may write stories, sermons, devotions, histories, prayers, songs, or poetry to be used to build up the body of Christ
- may teach God’s word to others through what they write
- may use writing to express other gifts
- may be better at expressing their thoughts in written form than in verbal form.

Luke 1:1-3
1 John 2:1
1 John 2:12-14
1 Timothy 3:14-15
Jude 1:3

How Can This Gift Best Be Utilized at HFM?:

There is a lot of writing that needs to be done here at HFM.   And there is even more that could be done if someone with the gift wanted to see it employed.  There are always articles for theLight from the Hill that need to be written and also letters to write to individuals who could use some encouragement.  But, there is also a whole lot more that could be done for those who possess special gifts of communicating truth through writing.  The most recent opportunity for using this gift has been exposed as we have talked to Pastor Dave about the possibilities for writing on the new HFM web-page.   It could be that a whole ministry of writing could become significant for those who are willing to coordinate with prophets, teachers or pastors to blog or communicate via the Internet on a regular basis.   If something like this flips your trigger, please contact Pastor Dave or Pastor Keith and we will evaluate your gift and try to find an outlet for your gift that is both edifying for yourself and the larger Body of Christ.