The Gifts of the Holy Spirit and Your Purpose

Have you ever felt like everyone else in the church had a purpose—except you? Let’s look at the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

You see the singers, the teachers, the organizers, the behind-the-scenes miracle workers—and you wonder where you fit in. If you’ve ever felt spiritually sidelined or unsure of your role, you’re not alone.

The good news? God has gifted every believer through the Holy Spirit for a unique purpose in the body of Christ. That includes you.

Let’s explore what Scripture says about the gifts of the Spirit—especially those found in 1 Corinthians 12—and how they help us function together as one Spirit-filled family.

Various colored puzzle pieces scattered around, slowly assembling into a completed cross at the center—each piece representing a believer’s gift contributing to the church. — Every piece matters—coming together in faith to form something greater.

What Are Spiritual Gifts?

Spiritual gifts are God-given abilities distributed by the Holy Spirit to believers for the purpose of building up the church.

These gifts aren’t talents or personality traits. You can be introverted and have the gift of leadership. You can be extroverted and not have it. Spiritual gifts are empowered by God, not cultivated by effort.

Paul lays out a primary list of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12, including both what many call “sign gifts” (like healing, tongues, miracles) and “service gifts” (like teaching, administration, helps).

A group of people standing together, their shadows merging to form the shape of a cross on the wall, visually representing how unity and gifts reflect Christ. — When we stand together, His presence shines through.

Where Do We See the Gifts in Scripture?

While 1 Corinthians 12 is the anchor passage, spiritual gifts are mentioned in several places:

Romans 12:6–8 – Emphasizes service gifts like encouragement, generosity, and leadership.
Ephesians 4:11–13 – Focuses on leadership gifts like apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers.
1 Corinthians 12 – Covers both sign gifts and service gifts, stressing unity in diversity.

Paul makes this key point:

“A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.”

—1 Corinthians 12:7 (NLT)

No one is left out. Everyone has something to offer. And it’s not about showing off—it’s about serving others.

A single tree bearing multiple types of fruit—apples, grapes, figs, and more—each growing from different branches. A metaphor for diverse gifts rooted in one Spirit. — One tree, many fruits—different gifts nourished by the same Spirit.

Two Kinds of Gifts: Sign and Service

There’s often confusion around what types of gifts still operate today. While Christians may differ on the continuation of the sign gifts (like tongues, healing, and miracles), all agree that the Spirit still gives service gifts like leadership, encouragement, mercy, and administration.

So instead of debating what gifts are “active,” focus on this:

What gift has God given me to serve others right now?

Both types of gifts—when used in humility and unity—point people to Jesus and strengthen the church.

A man kneeling in a church setting as hands are placed on his shoulders, symbolizing ordination and spiritual affirmation. — A moment of calling—affirmation through faith and community.

A Personal Story: A Word That Lit a Fire

When I was ordained as a deacon at Metropolitan Bible Church, Pastor Diffee looked me in the eye and said something I’ve never forgotten:

“If I were in a crowded theatre and it caught fire, I’d watch where you go. Because you have the gift of leadership.”

That moment stayed with me—not because it made me feel important, but because it helped me see something God had placed in me. His words gave language to what I’d sensed but hadn’t fully understood.

That’s what spiritual gifts do. They don’t elevate—they equip. They help us move confidently in the direction God designed us to go.

A diverse group of people of various ages, backgrounds, races, and skills working together to lift a giant cross, symbolizing unity in gifting and calling. — Many hands, one mission—strength in unity and shared purpose.

Why the Gifts Matter

You weren’t saved to sit—you were saved to serve. The body of Christ suffers when its parts sit idle.

“Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part… In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary.”

—1 Corinthians 12:14, 22 (NLT)

Whether your gift is visible or quiet, flashy or behind the scenes, it’s necessary. You are needed.

Imagine the local church where every believer knows their gift, uses it humbly, and supports others in theirs. That’s what spiritual maturity looks like—not competition, but collaboration.

How Do I Discover My Gift?

Here are a few simple steps to start discovering your spiritual gift:

Pray – Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what He’s placed in you.
Read 1 Corinthians 12 and the other key passages mentioned.
Reflect – What do you feel drawn to? What brings you joy when serving?
Ask Others – Often, other believers can see our gifts before we can.
Try Different Roles – Serve in different areas and see where you sense spiritual energy and effectiveness.

And remember—gifts grow over time. As you use them, they sharpen.

Final Encouragement

You don’t have to be the same as everyone else. In fact, it’s better that you’re not.

The Holy Spirit gave you a gift that someone else in the church needs. You might be the encourager that lifts someone from despair. The organizer that brings clarity to chaos. The leader who sees the next faithful step.

Don’t bury what God has entrusted to you. Unwrap it. Use it. Grow it.

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This post is part of our Holy Spirit Series

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