{"id":7762,"date":"2011-12-05T08:00:22","date_gmt":"2011-12-05T13:00:22","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/mintools.com\/blog\/?p=7762"},"modified":"2025-06-01T10:43:54","modified_gmt":"2025-06-01T14:43:54","slug":"dysfunctional-performance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mintools.com\/blog\/dysfunctional-performance.htm","title":{"rendered":"Dysfunctional Approach to Spiritual Gifts: Performance"},"content":{"rendered":"

One of the definitions for dysfunctional in the Encarta World English Dictionary is “not performing as expected.”\u00a0 In addition to affecting interpersonal relationships<\/a> and health<\/a>, a dysfunctional approach to spiritual gifts affects our performance.<\/p>\n

Dysfunction Defined in Regard to Performance:<\/h2>\n

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,\u00a0attitudes, or\u00a0motivations.<\/p>\n

If we are commanded to faithfully use our gifts (1 Pet. 4:10)<\/span>, then it must be possible to use our gifts inconsistently or not to the level we could.<\/p>\n

If those with the gift of giving are commanded to give generously (Rom. 12:8)<\/span>, then it must be possible for them to be stingy in using this gift.<\/p>\n

If leaders are commanded to lead with diligence (Rom. 12:8)<\/span>, then it must be possible for leaders to get lazy.<\/p>\n

If people with the gift of mercy are to show mercy cheerfully (Rom. 12:8)<\/span>, then it must be possible for them to do so begrudgingly or with hesitation.<\/p>\n

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)<\/span>.\u00a0 Anything short of using our gifts in this way is dysfunctional because we are “not performing as expected.”<\/p>\n

To what should we be lining up in the use of our spiritual gifts?<\/p>\n