Motivational Gifts (Romans 12:6-8)

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:6-8)

The Motivational Gifts, as outlined in Romans 12:6–8, offer a unique glimpse into how God has wired each believer to serve and build up the Body of Christ. This begins with an assessment to help you identify your primary Motivational Gift. From there, we delve into profiles that explore the nuances of each gift, including how they manifest in daily life and contribute to the church, the workplace, and beyond.

These profiles are not rigid definitions but a framework to understand how these gifts influence individual temperament, strengths, weaknesses, and spiritual motivations. By looking at each gift within the broader context of Scripture and its correlation to other sets of seven in the Bible (such as the Days of Creation, Tabernacle Furnishings, Compound Names of God, Letters to the Churches, and Christ’s Seven Last Sayings), we aim to uncover more profound insights into how God’s wisdom is displayed through His people.

The Gifts:

  1. Prophecy (Prophet)

  2. Serving (Servant)

  3. Teaching (Teacher)

  4. Encouraging (Exhorter)

  5. Giving (Giver)

  6. Leadership (Ruler)

  7. Mercy

Romans 12 is a chapter about transformation and practicing faith in practical ways. Paul begins by urging believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1) and to be transformed by renewing their minds (Romans 12:2). This sets the stage for understanding the Motivational Gifts: they are practical expressions of a life surrendered to God.

Why these Gifts Matter:

  • Acts of Worship: The gifts are not about personal gain but about serving God as an act of worship.

  • Unity and Humility: Romans 12 emphasizes humility and unity within the body of Christ (Romans 12:3-5). These gifts are meant to function within the church to build the community, not elevate the individual.

  • Practical Application: These gifts are tools for daily life and relationships, reflecting God’s grace.

  • Takeaway: Motivational Gifts help believers live out their transformed lives by serving others in practical, God-glorifying ways.