We see extremely talented people in all walks of life. Videos are posted of extraordinary skills. The media makes heroes of people accomplishing amazing things. We work with, live with and certainly know people that are very gifted in certain areas.
The problem comes with the attitudes of many gifted people. Do they pound their chests and proudly proclaim their achievements? Or do they acknowledge that perhaps other parties were involved in their accomplishments? Does the football player who scored a touchdown praise the ten other teammates and coaches who contributed to the score? Does this player also commend his parents and others who empowered his development? Is he actively serving the community that supports his team? Or is he content to receive praises only?
II Corinthians 8:7 says, “But as you excel in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you – see that you excel in this act of grace also.” Even among believers it is possible to focus on our gifts or on the gifted person. God expects us to use His gifts to us in service to Him and to other people. We begin by thanking Him for His gifts and then humbly use them to the praise of God and to bless people. In this way we pass on the grace given to us from God.
Reluctant Retiree 