1 Peter 4
Bible Passage: 1 Peter 4
11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
~ 1 Peter 4:11
Reading this verse actually fills me with shame today.
Peter was talking about our spiritual service to God. Broadly, there are two categories – speaking and serving.
But he could have been talking about any gift that we have been given by God in our service to Him.
Peter was reminding us of the heavy responsibility for those who speak and teach. James advised us that not many should presume to be teachers (James 3:1) ans they will be judged more strictly.
It is a good reminder for those of us to lead Bible Studies, teach in RE classes or even speak on the pulpit. When we speak – we are “speaking the very words of God”. We must recognize that when we have been given the gift to speak and teach, we should not think we are doing it by ourselves or doing it for our own benefits.
Instead we must be ministering faithfully with the strength that God provides us and that our end goal must be for the praise of God.
If I extend it to beyond speaking or teaching, the principles are the same.
Last Saturday, I was horrified when a brother remarked to me that he liked my “performance” in one of our old hymn evangelistic service. It made me wonder if I am using my gift to entertain for personal glory or that if that’s how people see my service to God.
God will not be impressed.
If I use my gifts for personal gain, there will be a heavy price to pay.
Let us check on what we do today and remind ourselves that “that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.”
