How to Maximise the Gifts of God

In Matthew 25:14–30, Jesus shares the parable of the talents, illustrating how God entrusts each of us with special abilities, skills or gifts, expecting us to steward them faithfully. The story speaks of a master who gives his servants different amounts of talent (money) according to their ability. Two of the servants invested and multiplied what they received. However, one buried his gift and was harshly rebuked.

 

But how do we go from simply knowing we have a gift to fully walking in it? 

 

This parable isn’t just about finances. It’s about responsibility, stewardship, and accountability. Every gift, skill, or calling you’ve received has been given for a reason. God expects fruitfulness, not idleness. To maximize the gifts of God in you is to honour the Giver and impact others. And just before you cast a stone on the one that buried his talents, you need to read this.

 

This guide includes practical steps that will help you identify, grow, and faithfully use the gifts God has placed in your hands so that when He returns, He will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

 

Practical Steps to Maximize Your God's Given Gifts

 

1. Identify the Gifts of God in You

The first step is recognition. You can’t maximize what you haven’t first discovered. Then the question is, how do I identify the gifts?Here is how to Identify Your Gifts:Spend time in prayer and reflection. Ask God to reveal what He’s placed in you (James 1:5). He will open your eyes to see and lead your heart aright.Observe what stirs your spirit. What do you do effortlessly that blesses others? Think about them.Listen to the feedback of others. Often, people around us recognize our gifts before we do. Hear people around you talk, though this should not negate what God told you but rather be a confirmation.Read Romans 12:6–8, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4:11. These passages outline various spiritual gifts, which include teaching, giving, administration, encouragement, and more.

 

2. Develop Your Gifts

Just like a seed must be nurtured to grow into a tree, your gift must be developed.2 Timothy 1:6 encourages us to “fan into flame the gift of God” implying intentional effort.How to Develop It:Practice consistently. Growth requires discipline. Keep showing up, keep building and keep at it.Study and learn. Read books, take courses, and meditate on relevant scriptures.Stretch yourself. Step outside your comfort zone and let God mature the gift in you.

 

3. Use Your Gift in Service

Gifts were never meant to be stored. They grow when given away.1 Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.”Yes, Start small. Use your gift in your local church, community, or online. When you use your gift faithfully, God multiplies it.

 

4. Submit to Mentorship

Mentorship is not imitation. You’re not becoming a copy but rather learning principles that protect and sharpen your unique expression.Even Paul had Barnabas. You need people who have gone ahead of you.Proverbs 13:20 reminds us, “He who walks with the wise becomes wise…”Mentors provide perspective, correction, and encouragement. They help you avoid pitfalls and build on tested patterns.

 

5. Rely on the Holy Spirit

The place of the holy spirit in maximizing your gifts can not be underemphasized. The Holy Spirit is the Giver and Enabler of every true gift. Without His help, we may misuse or misunderstand what we’ve been given.Acts 1:8 says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…”Ask Him to fill you daily, lead you continually, and empower you to use your gifts with grace and precision. The Spirit not only activates your gift, He matures it.

 

6. Be Grateful for Your Gifts

It’s tempting to admire other people’s callings while downplaying our own. Don't see other people's gifts as major and yours as minor. Is it not just to draw? No! It goes beyond that. Be thankful to God for what you have. The same God who gave you that gift has a purpose attached to it.

 

Closing Reflection / PrayerLord, thank You for the gifts You’ve placed in me. Help me to recognize, develop, and use them faithfully. Fill me with Your Spirit, surround me with wise counsel, and strengthen me when I grow weary. May my life glorify You and serve others well. In Jesus’ name, Amen.