DAY 17: USING YOUR GIFTScripture: 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."Powerful Intro:Imagine a world where each person fully embraced their talents and used them—unashamedly, unapologetically—for good. Picture the transformation in your family, your community, your church, even the world if everyone stepped into their unique calling. What if today you realized that your gifts—no matter how ordinary they may seem—are extraordinary tools in the hands of God? Today is the day to unwrap what God has given you and let the world be blessed by your divine fingerprint.Backstory of the Scripture:The apostle Peter wrote this letter to encourage believers who were experiencing hardship, reminding them of their purpose and responsibility as members of God’s family. With persecution looming, Peter insists that the church use its gifts to serve one another selflessly. In doing so, they would reveal God’s grace in practical, powerful ways. He wanted Christians not to hide their talents, but to steward them faithfully for the strength and unity of the body of Christ.Lesson: Demonstrating 1 Peter 4:10You are uniquely created, intentionally gifted, and purposefully placed. 1 Peter 4:10 is not just a suggestion—it’s a calling. God has deposited divine gifts and abilities in each and every one of us. You may be a great listener, a wise organizer, a talented artist, or a peacemaker. Your gift may be encouragement, hospitality, teaching, or faith—but whatever it is, it is intended not solely for your benefit but to bless others and reflect God’s goodness.When you use your gifts in service to others, you become a living channel of God’s grace. Your willingness multiplies blessings. Sometimes, we overlook our abilities, comparing ourselves to others or minimizing what God has placed in us. But God calls you to honor your gift, to nurture it, and to use it for His glory. When we serve, we proclaim loudly: "Here I am, Lord—use me for Your purpose!"3 Powerful Takeaways:1. Your Gift is Unique and PurposefulRomans 12:6 – "We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us."God’s design is intentional. He is the master craftsman who intricately forms each person with unique gifts, perspectives, and callings. There has never been, nor will there ever be, another you. Your life is the only “you-shaped” reflection of God’s creativity in all of human history.God’s grace is the divine power behind your gift. He didn’t look at you and randomly assign an ability; instead, He knit your gifts and passions together to fit your purpose and your placement in His greater plan. Your upbringing, challenges, victories, and even your quirks are woven into your gift’s effectiveness.Going Deeper: When you compare yourself to others, you slight the divine intention God had for creating you. Instead, celebrate that your gift, no matter how big or small it seems, fills a unique gap in God’s Kingdom that no one else can fill.2. Gifts are Meant to Serve OthersMatthew 5:16 – "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."Your gifts are not trophies to sit on a shelf—they are tools meant to impact the world. When God gave you a gift, He put it in your hands not for your glory, but for the good of those around you. Every act of service, every word of encouragement, every kindness or solution you bring using your gift, is like lighting a candle in the darkness for someone else.The world grows brighter each time you use your gift generously. Serving shifts your perspective from “me-centered” to “God and others-centered.” In that shift, your gift finds its highest purpose and deepest fulfillment.Going Deeper: Ask yourself: Who is blessed when I use my gift? Who misses out if I don’t? Realize that someone, somewhere, is waiting for what only you can offer.3. Using Your Gift Honors GodColossians 3:23-2