How do I know what God’s gifted me in? / Does the parable of the talents imply that if you don’t use the gifts God has given you that he will take them away?

Understanding our Spiritual Gifts in the Kingdom is so important, because once we know how God has wired us and we use those gifts, we will be fruitful and fulfilled in meaningful service. First, we need to make the distinction between gifts and talents. Spiritual Gifts are not natural talents like singing, cooking, sports, etc. Nor are they the Fruits of the Spirit, positions in the church, or Christian disciplines like fasting, prayer, Bible study, tithing. Spiritual Gifts are rooted in Scripture, clearly evident in the life of the local church, and are affirmed in the lives of some believers. In the following passages you will find examples of Spiritual Gifts, notice that the lists are not identical. 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Romans 12:6-8, Ephesians 4:11, 1 Peter 4:9-10, Exodus 31:3-5, 1 Timothy 2:1-2, and Psalm 150: 3-5.  At Rolling Hills we offer a four week Discovery Class where we work through the Network curriculum from Willow Creek. In this class, you will discover your spiritual gifts (what you do best), personal style (how you best serve) and God-given passion (where you best serve) for serving in the body of Christ. The Discovery Class will begin on Wednesday, September 14, at 6 pm at The WareHouse. You can register and find more information here.

If we don’t use talents will God take them away? The Parable of the Talents is found in Matthew 25:14-30.
See this answer from Rick Warren

If I don’t use it, I’ll lose it. This principle is true of anything in your life — time, money, effort, energy, talent or abilities. If you don't use it, you lose it. "The master says, 'Take the talent from him and give it to the one who has ten talents.'" (Matt. 25:28, NIV) That doesn't seem fair! The rich get richer and the talented get more talented. But it is fair. God has the right to take away anything that I don't use for him. He gave it to me in the first place. He has the right to do that. I forfeit it if I don't use it. It's a universal law: if I don't use my muscles I lose my muscles. If I don't use my mind, I lose it — it becomes mentally dull. If I don't use the opportunities God has given me in business, sports, ministry, whatever, I lose the opportunities. If I don't practice my talent, I lose my talent. Use it or lose it.
Just start using what you have been given for God. If you find you need more energy, use what you've got for God and watch what happens. Little becomes much when you put it in the master's hand. If I need more time, I give my time to God. If I need more money, I give my money to God. If I need more talent, I give my talent to God. Watch him multiply it — just like the five loaves and two fish. He multiples it when we place it in the Master's hand.

Laura Chapman, Equipping Minister

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