Are you, like me, a prolific user of the internet? Do you understand the workings of those people and machines who make internet a reality? I don’t. But I do wonder periodically why my messages don’t go through. This photo is some wiring for an internet network. It brings new meaning to ‘scrambling messages’!
This picture reminds me of the “man’s brain vs woman’s brain” talks by Mark Gungor. It also illustrates the confusion that exists in interpretations of God’s creative genius in providing spiritual gifts. If there is confusion between simple things like gender why wouldn’t there be confusion regarding the motivational gifts that He created for you and the Body?
In the past couple notes I asked how you respond to irritations. When Paul was talking about the gifts in his letter to the Romans he only identified seven. Because that list is different from the ones in Corinthians and Ephesians I’ve been researching why. My curiosity has rewarded me with finding about 155 scripture passages that parallel the Romans 12 sequence but not the other lists. I’m becoming strongly convinced through this weight of evidence that those seven gifts are peculiar from the others. The amazing volume of illustrative evidence enlarges the definitions of those seven. With each illustration, I’m gaining a clearer picture of:
- the importance of understanding those seven gifts and
- their relevance to every Believers personal harmonizing of life in the Body.
Let me refocus my question to a ‘non-theological’ scenario. Instead of asking: “what do others do that disappoints you?” consider which of these responses would describe you. Visualize yourself visiting a sick friend and expressing what you might say:
“What is God trying to tell you through this illness? Is there sin you haven’t dealt with?”
This is the response of a Prophet motivation as they seek to discover the spiritual implications of not being blessed.
“Here’s a little gift! I brought your mail in, fed your dog, watered your plants, and washed your dishes.”
This is the response of a Server motivation as they seek to demonstrate practical concern or assistance for others.
“I did some research on your illness and I believe I can explain what’s happening.”
This is the response of a Teacher motivation as they seek to research the roots and solutions.
“How can we use what you’re learning here to help others in the future?”
This is the response of a Encourager motivation as they seek to use experience as a stepping stone for further growth.
“Do you have finances to cover this illness and resources to cope with your needs?”
This is the response of a Giver motivation as they seek to network resources of God’s provision.
“Don’t worry about a thing. I’ve delegated your job to four others at work.”
This is the response of a Ruler motivation as they seek to facilitate / accomplish the re-establishment of health
“I can’t begin to tell you how I felt when I learned you were so sick. How do you feel now?”
This is the response of a Mercy motivation as they seek to express sympathy and genuine love.
You can compare the comments you pick here with the answers you picked previously. All are probably similar in focus. Check them out. Usually no-one is just one of the above. You may respond to a family member differently than to a colleague from work. That is normal. 🙂
Now, consider family members and colleagues to determine which response they would have. We often mistake what people do as quirks of their personality, and shun or love them accordingly.* But their expression may actually be their motivational gift as created by our Father to bring balance to life in the Body. When you understand your motivational gift you will have gone a long way in unscrambling your Father’s purpose and direction for you.
May you be blessed because the LORD creatively formed you; He is your strength and He honours you.
(I am honorable in the eyes of the Lord and He is my strength) Isaiah 49:5
(original post Feb 8 2015)
