“As each one has received a gift (a spiritual talent, an ability graciously given by God), minister it to one another, as good stewards…” – 1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV)
God gives us all the opportunity to develop the gifts He placed within us so that we can use those gifts to help those in need. We do not, in many cases, go looking for an opportunity to use our skills, but often, by chance, something happens, and we are required to apply those skills.
A young man in handcuffs was sitting in a police patrol car, having been taken into custody for a minor offence. A major multiple vehicle accident on the highway was causing much delay as traffic could only proceed at a snail’s pace. The police officer driving the patrol car, a woman in this case, exited the car after giving a warning to the young man to remain in place. She discovered that there was a man trapped under an upturned car several feet off the road. He was bleeding from a head wound, his feet were trapped, and he was shouting for help, fear in his voice. Petrol was leaking less than two feet away from his face.
Returning to the patrol car the officer quickly called for help while explaining to the young man the reason for the delay. Surprisingly, the young man in handcuffs offered to help. He was a heavy-duty machine operator and could get the upturned vehicle lifted but she would need to release his handcuffs. She hesitated only briefly and then released the handcuffs, quite aware she was taking risks. The result was that the accident victim was transported to the hospital within minutes, and the highway was cleared. This young man could have kept quiet about his skills, or worse, he could have escaped, leaving the officer to defend her decision. But he remained and assisted in an emergency.
James 4:17 (NKJV) says, “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.” Stand up and stand out, use your gift!
Prayer
Lord, thank You for allowing us to develop skills and abilities to help ourselves and others. Please open our eyes and our hearts to opportunities to serve others well in our lifetime. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Colossians 3:23; Titus 1:7
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 119:17-24; 1 Thessalonians 5; Jeremiah 25:15-38; Jeremiah 26
