Read: Romans 12:3

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

Reflect:

Some time ago I participated in a meeting designed to define and evaluate different personality types and how to communicate effectively with others. Space doesn’t allow for a full description, but it is an interesting concept to consider those who are introverts or extroverts and the ways we make decisions or communicate with others.

Understanding who we are is foundational to the task. As Paul reminds us in the verse above we need to avoid thinking too highly of ourselves. Instead, we are to evaluate our self-esteem with “sober judgment.” Paul then refocuses our attention on the source of identity in Christ “according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.”

God has given us strengths. So instead of trying to be something, we are not, why not embrace the God-given gifts?

“Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness”(Romans 12: 6-8).

Respond:

“Let us use them.” I think there are two other thoughts at work here. When we have a clear and accurate view of ourselves, we can then pursue these gifts with both enthusiasm and excellence in such a way to honor both God and others. By doing so, we can be who God designed us to be and experience the freedom He wants for us.