Linda and Sue watch their parents pull out of the driveway on their way to church. The girls could have occupied the back seat as they used to. But today they are spending the first Sunday at home. They’re attending church on Sabbath now. They walk to the patio and sit facing each other, feeling a bit strange. The excitement of their first Sabbath, the baptism, the welcome, and the sense of belonging to a new church family—all of it means making adjustments at home, school, work, everywhere.

The girls remember the pastor’s words about getting involved in church activities, giving their time to witnessing, and using their "talents" for the church. They want to share their beliefs with their parents, but they wonder if they have the ability to do that. They wonder if talents mean special gifts. Spiritual gifts? How can they get them? They have the time and the desire, but where are their spiritual gifts?

What is a spiritual gift?

A spiritual gift is a special attribute given by the Holy Spirit to every member of the body of Christ, according to God’s grace, for use within the context of the church body. This definition makes three important points. First, a spiritual gift is given by the grace of God. God is the one who determines the spiritual gift we should have. God knows which gift fits best with our personalities, and God, in His wisdom, gives us the appropriate spiritual gift. The second point is that every member of the body of Christ has a spiritual gift. And the third, spiritual gifts are given to be used for the strengthening of God’s church.

The foundation for spiritual gifts is found in three key biblical passages—Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4. You will want to look these passages up in your own Bible and study them prayerfully. Somewhere in these three references is God’s special spiritual gift for you.

How do you discover your own, personal spiritual gift?

Start with study and research. Here are six suggested methods for you to use.

1. Study the Scriptures.

2. Read other articles and books on spiritual gifts.

3. Rub shoulders with spiritually gifted people.

4. Form a group and discuss your spiritual gift possibilities.

5. Analyze your own strengths and weaknesses.

6. Attend a spiritual gifts seminar.

Why is it important for you to discover your spiritual gift?

Because the Lord wants to use your gift. With your gift you can help God’s church to succeed. But unless you find your gift, develop it, and implement it, your own spiritual growth, as well as that of your church, will suffer. By discovering your gift, you will be able to experience a feeling of belonging within your local church. God has given you a spiritual gift because you are important to Him, to His church, and to all potential Christians. That’s exciting!

This article was adapted by Ann Fisher, Lake Union Herald managing editor, from Welcome to the Family, an out-of-print book published jointly by Home Study International and the North American Division, and used with permission.