When we think, sometimes wistfully, about discerning God’s “good and pleasing and mature” will for our life (cf. Romans 12:2), we may think in terms of visions or dramatic, “out of the blue” messages. Paul believed realistic self-assessment could direct God’s people to God’s will. God’s will, he seemed to say, is that you primarily do what you’re gifted to do: “If your gift is teaching, devote yourself to teaching.”

• In what ways can we exercise any of the various gifts Paul mentioned in today’s reading in love? How do you use your gifts to express God’s love to others?
• What tools have you used, in school, church, your workplace or from other sources, to help you with realistic self-assessment? What have you come to understand about your strengths and limitations from using those tools? Are there aspects of yourself you’d still like to understand better? Are you open to the guidance of God’s Spirit as you continue on that journey of learning how you function best?