One of the definitions for dysfunctional in the Encarta World English Dictionary is “not performing as expected.” In addition to affecting interpersonal relationships and health, a dysfunctional approach to spiritual gifts affects our performance.
Dysfunction Defined in Regard to Performance:
That we were commanded to use our gifts in certain ways, lets us know it is possible to use our gifts with the wrong approach, attitudes, or motivations.
If we are commanded to faithfully use our gifts (1 Pet. 4:10), then it must be possible to use our gifts inconsistently or not to the level we could.
If those with the gift of giving are commanded to give generously (Rom. 12:8), then it must be possible for them to be stingy in using this gift.
If leaders are commanded to lead with diligence (Rom. 12:8), then it must be possible for leaders to get lazy.
If people with the gift of mercy are to show mercy cheerfully (Rom. 12:8), then it must be possible for them to do so begrudgingly or with hesitation.
God expects that in whatever we do, we give it our all, doing our best, for His glory (1 Cor. 10:31; Col. 3:17; 2 Tim. 2:15). Anything short of using our gifts in this way is dysfunctional because we are “not performing as expected.”
To what should we be lining up in the use of our spiritual gifts?
- the character of God which is always true and always good and therefore an absolute standard (1 Cor. 14:33, 40)
- the purpose of spiritual gifts which is to serve others for the good of the whole, the building up of the Body (1 Cor. 12:7; Eph. 4:12; 1 Pet. 4:10)
- the essence/nature of spiritual gifts which is the administration of God’s grace in its various forms (1 Pet. 4:10)
Effects of Dysfunction from Not Performing as Expected:
When we are not performing in accordance with God’s standards, we do not experience the fullness of the His life in and through us. God must remain true to Himself.
We might sense a measure of success but how much more could have been accomplished if done for the right reasons and in the right ways? God will sometimes use us despite ourselves so just because He is choosing to work through us doesn’t mean everything is right with us.
Breaking the Dysfunctional Approach to Spiritual Gifts about Performance:
God will help us break the dysfunction through the following means:
Truth
But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. (2 Cor. 11:3)
Usually when we do not fully line up with God, we are believing some kind of lies … like it doesn’t matter how well I do something as long as I love the Lord, like somehow it is dependent on me, like there should be something in it for me when I serve, etc. When we go into serving with faulty premises, it is bound to affect our performance as our attitudes and motivations make a difference. We must recognize those lies, taking the thoughts captive (2 Cor. 10:5) and tell ourselves the truth as found in God’s Word.
Grace
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Cor. 9:8)
Only by God’s grace will we be able to do anything. We must constantly pull on His strength, as a branch gets its sustenance from the vine, so we can bear fruit, not just get by in serving. We must always remember Jesus’ words, “Apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn. 15:5). His grace will always be sufficient but we must grab hold of it.
Power
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)
These Christ-like characteristics must govern even how we use our spiritual gifts. Any time we do not serve according to His expectations, we are letting self get in the way. The antidote? — “So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” (Gal. 5:16)