What God Shaped You For

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time. –2 Timothy 1:9 NIV

Every believer has been chosen and gifted by God for a purpose. He gifts us through His Spirit so that we can serve others. We don’t have to hold a notable title or credential to use the gifts God has placed within us. Anytime we serve others, we’re doing God’s holy work here on earth. Do you know for what purpose God shaped you? Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church gave an illustration to help people figure out how God shaped them for ministry. He said, “You look at your SHAPE — your Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences. You look at how God shaped you. God wants you to use your talents and gifts to help other people. Every time you do that, that’s called ministry—nothing fancy about it. It’s just helping others.” You’re important to God and to the Body of Christ. You’re part of God’s family, and He has assignments specifically designed for you to accomplish. If you neglect to use your talents and gifts, God’s church and others will be cheated of what God intended them to receive. Take time to look at your SHAPE—Spiritual gifts, Heart, Ability, Personality, Experiences—and discover for which service area(s) God has shaped you.