My Father's Gifts

My Father’s Gifts Treasure in Clay Jars

Compiled by Hanlie Wentzel

Baobab Consulting www.baobabtherapy.com

The Gifts of the Father: Motivational & Redemptive Gifts For many, clarification of the distinct role each member of the Godhead plays in giving gifts to mankind is helpful. Foundationally, of course, our existence – human life – is given by God the Father (Gen. 2:7, Heb.12:9). Jesus is the giver of eternal life (John 5:38-40, 10:27, 28). Further, the Father and Son have jointly sent the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1, 33).

In sequence then, we find Rom 12:3-8 describing gifts given by God as Father. They seem to characterize basic “motivations”, inherent tendencies that characterize each different person by reason of the Creator’s unique workmanship in their initial gifting. While only seven categories are listed, observation indicates that few people are fully described by only one. More commonly a mix is found, with different traits of each gift present to some degree, while usually one will be the dominant trait of that person. These gifts of our place in God’s created order are foundational. YOUR INBORN TEMPERAMENT. Second, in 1 Cor. 12:7-11, the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit are listed. Their purpose is specific – to “profit” the body of the church. These gifts are specifically available to every believer as the Holy Spirit distributes them (1 Cor. 12:11). They are not to be merely acknowledged in a passive way, but rather are to be actively welcomed and expected (1 Cor. 13:1, 14:1).

Third, the gifts

which the Son of God has given are pivotal in assuring that the first two categories of gifts are applied in the body of the church. Eph. 4:716 not only indicates the “office gifts” Christ has placed in the church along with their purpose. The ministry of these leaders is to “equip” the body by assisting each person: 1) to perceive the place the Creator has made him to fill, by His creative workmanship in him, and the possibilities that salvation now opens to his realization of what he was made to be, and 2) to receive the power of the Holy Spirit, and begin to respond to His gifts, which are given to expand each believer’s capabilities beyond the created order and toward the redemptive dimension of ministry, for edifying the church and evangelising the world.

- Sourced from THE GIFTS OF THE GODHEAD, Spirit Filled Life Bible 1991, A New King James Version, pp. 2022-2026

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My Father’s Gifts

Treasure Hunt “Kingdom of Heaven is like treasure hidden in a field.” – Math 13:44 Looking for your gift is like looking for buried treasure. Every snowflake is different from any other snowflake. God made the snowflake and God made you different from anyone else in the entire world. Look real close at your thumb. Did you know your very fingerprint is different from anyone else? No two fingerprints are alike. Did you look close at your thumb? Do you see all those tiny lines?

Just like God gave you a body with your very own special DNA map, He also gave you your very own special spiritual DNA map. Unlike anyone else in the entire world, He gave it to you. You are very special to God, your Creator!

Just like you received your physical DNA from your earthly father, like the colour of your eyes, the colour of your hair, how tall you will grow; Your Heavenly Father has given you His very own spiritual DNA. DNA is a scientific term that means your very own special design. Just like your thumb print, and the iris in your eye make up your sspecial pecial physical Design or DNA, your spiritual Design or DNA is very special and given to you from God, your Heavenly Father.

God, the Father and Creator of the Universe, designed you for this specific time and place in eternity, and He has a very special plan lan and purpose for your life. On the following pages, you will discover 7 gifts. You have a little part of each one of the 7 gifts. However, there will be one gift that is your dominate gift. You will discover your dominate gift just like you discovered w which hich hand to hold your pencil so that you can write. Which hand do you hold your pencil? Your right or your left hand?

The spiritual gifts are found in the Bible, God’s word. The Bible is your guidebook. The Bible will help you grow in knowledge, wisdom and nd truth. The Spiritual Gifts of Prophet, Servant, Teacher, Exhorter, Giver, Ruler, Mercy are found in Romans 12:6 12:6-8. When you discover your gift, it is just like discovering a treasure ~ a treasure in your spirit. Which gift did God give to you? Are you rready to discover which GIFT is your dominant gift?

Follow each page like a map where x marks the spot.

Every x you mark is a CLUE to your destiny – so be very honest. INSTRUCTIONS: Each sentence that is true about you mark with an x Put an x next to the sentences that are most true about you. Count up the

x marks on each page as you go.

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My Father’s Gifts

1.

Spiritual Gift of Prophet _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

I can look at a situation and determine immediately if something is good or right or wrong.

I will try to improve something if there is something wrong with it If it is broken, I will try to fix it.

I am not afraid to try new things.

I like to speak out the word of God. I am very bold when I speak.

I am generous and like to give.

I can judge people and situations and decide if the situation is right or wrong.

I do not like to sit still.

I always need to be going somewhere.

I am very competitive and like to win games.

I usually like to tell what is wrong with something if it needs to be fixed.

I know it is very important to tell the truth.

I have a lot of faith.

I see the evilness of sin.

I have a holy rage, a fierce anger at the devil, especially if the devil tries to destroy a community or a person.

I can walk into a room of people and spot the evil people and liars.

God requires a higher level of holiness for the Prophet than any other gift.

Total: _____

2.

The Spiritual Gift of a Servant/ Ministry _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

I see the needs of people and I am quick to meet those needs. And sometimes before they ask, I will meet the need.

I seem to attract dishonour, especially in the home.

I have a real hard time saying “no” when someone asks me to do something.

I do excellent work, but don’t like to take the credit for it.

Sometimes I will apologize for doing good.

I have a desire to extend honour to others.

I will always be the first to step up and honour someone especially if that person is not getting his or her rightful recognition.

I see the best in people, even when no one else does.

I usually get angry when someone has wronged a friend or family member.

I like to save everything and I’m not always organized.

I like to work hard.

I am fiercely competitive in games and athletics.

I desire to pray for family and family healing.

I have few, if any, enemies.

I am faithful and trusting, and truthful.

God has given the Servant great authority to bless and cleanse and bring healing to lands and to people.

Total: _____

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3.

The Spiritual Gift of a Teacher _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

I like to research and repeat stories accurately.

I would never add anything or exaggerate the truth.

I am dependable, because people know that I will be accurate.

I make decisions slowly and processes information slowly.

I do not reject or receive new truth quickly.

I like to use my intellect.

I am usually late for appointments.

I have a hard time getting homework done on time.

I often have difficulty handling money.

I have a wonderful sense of humour – I can be funny and tell jokes.

I am usually the last one to speak in a group.

I let everyone else speak, so I can see all parts of a topic.

I like to be in a group setting and listen to what they think.

I am very loyal - especially to my family.

I don’t get angry very often, but will get angry if someone hurts a family member.

I enjoy details, but I don’t want to be rushed or hurried into completing a project.

I like making sure others receive the truth.

I am usually slow at getting things fixed.

God has given the teacher a great desire to worship and to walk in intimacy with Him. Total: _____

4.

The Spiritual Gift of Exhorter _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

I can sit next to a stranger and begin talking to them.

When I am in a group, everyone knows I am there.

I can be fun and outgoing.

I like to turn everything into fun – like having a party.

I can be emotional and even have loud disagreements without causing others to dislike me.

I can give people knowledge of God that helps them to grow spiritually.

I can touch people emotionally.

I can motivate others.

I like to be busy and work long hours.

I might be afraid to tell someone they have sinned.

I am sensitive to rejection and criticism from friends.

I like to share Jesus with others. I like to make big changes.

I don’t like to be alone – I like to be around people.

I like to know what is going on around me and like to be in the middle of everything.

Sometimes people say that I am a good speaker.

I see the best in people and help others to see the best in people.

I like new ideas.

I like to please others.

A person with the Spiritual Gift of Exhortation has the God-given authority to rule over nations.

Total: _____

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5.

The Spiritual Gift of Giver _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

I like to make people feel they are part of the family.

I am very independent.

I can look at a problem and find a solution.

I am very competent – people can count on me.

I can make money easily.

I have lots of interests and projects and activities at home.

I relate to a lot of people.

I can tell when a person is trying to fool or deceive me.

I don’t like it when someone is not telling me the entire story.

I can tell when people are hiding the facts from me.

I like to be private in my own life.

I like to keep my things to myself – I may even lock them up.

God provides resources and money to me.

I like to save things and look for bargains.

I know who works well together.

I can persuade people to do things they wouldn’t normally do.

I can be a peacemaker.

I like to give money.

I like to organize.

I like to feel secure.

If God has given you the Spiritual Gift of Giving, he has designed you to release generational blessings into your family and to the community around you.

Total: _____

6.

The Spiritual Gift of Ruler/ Leader like to work under pressure – stress is fun to me.

I can do several things at one time.

I am able to quickly change what I am working on and do something different.

I can motivate others to do things they didn’t know they could do.

I can be very busy because I like to be busy.

I like to know my friends are loyal to me.

I am able to see different ways of doing a task.

I don’t like to blame other people if I did something wrong.

I don’t like to volunteer for projects.

I like to lead in getting a project done.

I can learn new skills easily.

I like to accomplish a goal.

I am able to organize large groups of people.

I am willing to take a stand for what is right.

I am willing to admit I made a mistake.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Rulers have great dominion and authority. If you have the Gift of Ruler, God has given you the ability to release spiritual life to others.

Total: _____

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7.

The Spiritual Gift of Mercy _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

I don’t have very many enemies.

I am admired and respected by many people.

I can feel the heart of God. I crave or need to have intimacy.

I need and desire physical contact from my mom and dad.

I don’t like to make changes quickly.

I am slow in making decisions.

I don’t like to confront somebody else – to tell someone they are wrong.

I love to worship God. It is hard to make up my mind sometimes.

I can feel the pain of others.

I can enter into the presence of God much more easily than others.

I like to be creative.

I am very sensitive.

I need to worship God and when I do, it brings holiness.

The person with the Gift of Mercy is called by God to release the holiness and the glory of God into the world. To walk in holiness is your greatest fulfilment, and it will meet the greatest need of all mankind.

Total: _____ When you have finished, look back to see which gift has the most number of

x marks.

You may have discovered your Spiritual Gift ~ The Gift God has given to you ~ your Dominant gift! As you discover more about your gift, you will discover more about yourself. And when you discover more about yourself, you may begin to discover the plan God has for your very special life, for this very special time and place in eternity.

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Sourced from Barbara Bloomquist, New Horizons International Ministries.

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Recognizing and Understanding Redemptive Gifts - Sourced from Arizaga Guidelines for Assimilating these Truths Redemptive Gifts is really a study about God; what He is like and how you and I, and cities, states, nations, businesses, and all of creation reflect His nature.

Romans 1:19-20 …because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world, His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.

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All of creation is representative of who He is.

He is good, everything He made is good, no “good or bad” gifts.

Romans 12: 4-8 For we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, an individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them:

if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; if ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

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He was intentional in the distribution of the gifts, and He takes pleasure in the diversity of gifts.

1/7th of the big picture.

1. The gifts validate identity - John 8:32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

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Identity gifts vs. manifestation gifts Brings freedom, not restriction Releases you to be who you were created to be, with joy Allows you to release others to be who they were created to be, and enjoy them Provides a more accurate picture of the person of God, so you can enjoy Him. Confronts idolatrous images of God in our own hearts

2. The gifts illustrate capacity, attribute no righteousness - Romans 12:1-4 I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought

to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function.

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These gifts show our capacity, not what we have already attained Because of our sin nature the gifts can be perverted • Hitler, Stalin had Redemptive Gifts All capacity mist be developed, matured, refined, realized • Positional authority vs. Earned authority

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3. God's highest goal is to make you like His Son - Romans 8:29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.

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No one is exempt from becoming Christ-like or developing fruit of the Spirit Positions us to complete the most important assignment in this life

(Mark 12:30-31 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment.

I Corinthians 13:1-2 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.)

4. Becoming lumberjacks - Matthew 7:3-5 And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your eye?

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Focus on your own beams of timber, not other’s tiny particles The “particle focus” mindset also leads to comparisons, which the Word warns us against You can’t assume that every Redemptive Gift thinks and feels the same way that you do about things People’s gifts display variations depending on birth order, woundedness, and how they were parented There are also high-test, mid-grade, and unleaded variations. In some cases, I have observed super-test fuel ( like they use in the Indy cars) • Arthur Burk calls this amplification

5. Goal of this teaching is to inspire you to possess your birthright – Ephesians 4:15 ,,,but speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things unto Him who is the head – Christ -

Earn authority, complete the course – so your kids can do the same, restoring and releasing generational blessings to your family line In order to do this you MUST have a love affair with truth/the Truth If you want to be a champion you hire a trainer not to be sweet to you but to make you the best you can be

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REFLECTING GOD: Rainbow Light 2 Cor 4:7 states: "However, we possess this precious treasure [the divine light of the gospel] in frail human vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves" We can illustrate this with a prism in the following way.

• • • • • • •

RED - Prophet ORANGE - Giver YELLOW - Exhorter GREEN - Mercy BLOU - Servant INDIGO - Teacher VIOLET - Ruler

The context of Rom 11:28-30 indicates that Paul speaks of a gift that is given to us while we are still the enemy of God, disobedient and in rebellion. In other words children and unbelievers also have the motivational gifts. In Romans 11:29 Paul states that these gifts, once given by Father God, are never taken away again. The gifts of the Holy Spirit can be taken away from the person who fall back into persistent sin (e.g. Rev 2 – the letter to the church in Ephesus) The gifts were given to individuals so that they have different functions in the body of Christ (Rom 12:4). God did this so that the body would be interdependent on each other. The purpose of the gifts is to build the Kingdom of God. In practice it leaves us with a simple question – am I building God’s Kingdom, my own kingdom, or the enemy’s kingdom with my gift? In contrast to the manifestation gifts of the Holy Spirit in 1 Cor 12 Paul teaches us that this gift is under construction (Rom 12:2). It is

a gift we need to grow and develop into maturity.

We know that we were created in the image of God, as spirit, soul and body (1 Th 5:23; Heb 4:12). In Christ our spirits have all 7 these gifts because our spirits are one with the sevenfold Holy Spirit that is in us (Rev 1:4; Isaiah 11:2; John 3:5-6; 1 Cor 6:17). We can never limit our intimacy or personal relationship with Him to one way of receiving revelation, or one type of authority – we have the fullness of God in us (Eph 3:10-19; 2 Cor 4:7). Neither can we “hide” behind our gift. For example we can never say “I am not a teacher, therefore I am not required to teach...” God’s Anointing empowers and teaches us (2 John 2:27) to do whatever He wants us to do in a particular moment.

However, if we focus on what we do in the church or the body of Christ, we will fall into works and performance. We should therefore make sure that we keep our focus on who we were designed to be in our relationship with our heavenly Father. Bringing honour and glory

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to God is our ultimate calling (1 Cor 10:13). Our motivational gift does not determine the type of ministry we are being called to by God, it does however, influence the way we live out that God-given calling. For example: for the time and purpose of Jeremiah’s calling, God took an exhorter and called him to be a prophet, therefore Jeremiah is called the weeping prophet. If we compare his ministry to that of Ezekiel, who was a prophet also walking in the calling of a prophet; we can see that there is a different and unique flavour to each of these men’s ministries, although both were called to the same type of ministry.

For us to be able to identify our primary motivational gift, we need to learn about each gift’s Godly design and battlefield. The design is how God intended us to be and the battlefield are those areas that we struggle with as a result of our sinful nature. All these gifts are a revelation of God’s character in us and in the body of Christ. The gifts are equally important, none is more desirable than the other (Rom 12:3). Since there is no passage in the Bible that gives us a complete description of the gifts, the following methods were used to form a Biblical understanding of the characteristics and principles of the motivational gifts.

We are the body of Christ created to be living stones.

Let His Light shine through you.

For it is Christ in us the hope of glory.

Abide in Him. Shine.

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1. Redemptive Gift of Prophet I. Behavioral Characteristics - Sees design/mind of God - Sees things black and white - Enjoys new things - Terrible maintainers – cuts against their grain - Verbally expressive - Extremely opinionated - Takes initiative to judge others - Knows no fear, never intimidated by the unknown - Cannot tolerate bondage, being closed in - Extraordinarily generous – can be compulsive and unwise when immature - Shifts gears very quickly - Visionary – must have a vision and a reason (deadline, objective) - Fiercely competitive, cut throat - Transparent, full disclosure - Very hard on themselves, fiercely denounce themselves - Must make sense out of everything - Doesn’t maintain past relationships well once they have moved on - Passion for excellence (in themselves and everyone else) - Full range of emotion – deep mercy/fierce judgment; deep depression/ecstatic joy - Cannot tolerate denial – when people won’t face their own issues or consequences - Strong faith - Strong nurture - Drawn to people others would reject and ignore - Can spot rebellion/hypocrisy immediately - Victim spirit/victim thinking II. Examples in Scripture - Elijah - Peter - Ezekiel - Caleb - James, the Brother of Christ - Naomi - Miriam Mature Prophet Release design and intent from the mind of God – correcting and restoring deficiencies, activating potential, future focused Confronts sin boldly…but also has a vision for the fullness of God’s grace, speaks with life-giving creative force “let there be light”!

Can forgive and extend mercy to self

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Carnal Prophet Negative, hopeless, enemy manipulates their “design” gift to keep them focused on the problems/deficiencies around them, as well as things in the past, nursing grievances endlessly Extremely critical /condemning pointing out what is wrong with everyone and everything… confronts without mercy , first in line to stone the sinner, dead right Over-repents, has a tendency to extend forgiveness and mercy (when the responsibility for sin has been made) to others but not self

Embraces the value of all God’s principles, not content to arrive at fulfillment alone, encourages others to embrace pain and earn authority Embraces truths that deal with healthy relationship building Values growing in favor with God and man, has learned to endure hardships and persevere in difficult/unexplainable circumstances to earn natural and spiritual authority Values and trusts God’s timing, allows their root system to go deep in God, leaves the increase/ results to God Embraces sonship, eradicating orphaned heart/ thinking Responds appropriately to the situation while not limiting; God given emotional depth and capacity The prophet’s birthright is to know the mind of God. They can see new applications of truth based on God’s design and intent; this allows them to implement God’s principles with the goal of rebuilding, repairing, and restoring.

Gravitates only to personally likeable principles

Often neglects truths that deal with healthy relationship building Assigns blame, complains. Quits relationships, jobs, and churches, cannot persevere through seasons of preparation and impartation, they run ahead of God’s timing/try to initiate things on their own timing Fear of being sidelined, has difficulty enduring pruning of God, especially when opportunities for successful ministry are removed Neglects the relational truths that deal with intimacy with God, tries to earn legitimacy and value by things he can do/has done Overreacts, extreme responses inappropriate to event Cannot possess their own birthright or empower other to reach theirs, usually isolated withdrawn, hopeless and wounded.

God’s design of the motivational gift of the Prophet The word prophet simply means to be an “inspired speaker” making known the thoughts of someone. When we speak we can make known our own thoughts, the thoughts of the enemy or the thoughts of God. Anybody can be an inspired speaker and clearly not all inspired speakers are speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. When speaking about the gift of being a prophet, the distinction should therefore be made to qualify what type of prophet, or what type of “inspired speaker” are we talking about?

If we consider both the different words and different contexts of Romans 12 and 1 Cor 12 then we see that the gift in Rom 12 means a “particular spiritual endowment, talent or quality” while the gift in 1 Cor 12 is a gift that means “manifestation or expression”. From this we conclude that Paul meant to describe two different kinds of prophets in these two passages. Every born-again, Holy-Spiritbaptized believer receives the whole of the Holy Spirit and can therefore prophecy as the Holy Spirit gives the believer utterance, irrespective of their motivational gift. This gift of prophecy belongs to the Holy Spirit and it is the Holy Spirit that manifests or expresses Himself through the believer.

However, when we speak about the motivational gift of prophecy, we intend to describe a person with the following characteristics that they were born with: The motivational prophet is someone who likes to discover God’s principles, analyze them and use them to solve problems. They make known the thoughts of God on grounds of God’s principles. They are task orientated rather than people or relationship orientated, yet emotional. They are verbally very expressive. They are visionaries who can see far and deep – rather like a camera’s telephoto lens.

They focus on identifying, declaring and living in the principles of God’s word. They tend to reduce

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information until they can identify the principle, and then build their lives, businesses and churches on those principles.

They have an unwavering faith in the Word of God - once the Word of God is spoken, it is a done deal.

They tend not to focus on the process that is often necessary to bring the manifestation of the Word of God into the natural. When they speak the Word of God, they do so with the intention of bringing God’s light and order into the darkness and chaos of the life of the person or situation they are speaking into. Since prophets often see things others do not see yet, they have an important intercessory calling. (e.g. John the Baptist, Peter, Ezekiel)

The Battlefield The motivational prophet needs to work actively on building and maintaining relationships with people. They have to learn that unless you have relationship with someone, you mostly do not have the right to speak into that person’s life. A word softly spoken will encourage and build up the person and the body of Christ, but it should not compromise the truth of God’s word. Truth-based teaching is therefore essential.

No vision of God will ever contravene the truth of His Word as spelled out in the Bible. Prophets need to submit to spiritual leadership in all that is Godly and allow others to speak into their lives as well. A life of humility and self-sacrifice is necessary, pride, bitterness and unforgiveness will cause an open door through which the enemy can hijack their gift. The gift of prophecy is particularly vulnerable to occultism and witchcraft. The prophet can appear to be judgmental of others because of their strong sense of right and wrong. They have to learn to live and practice self-sacrificial love towards others.

2. Redemptive Gift of Servant / Ministry I. Behavioral Characteristics - Sees external needs and makes an effort to meet them - Concerned about the comfort of others - Obedience is the free money of servant - Gets over busy, can’t say no easily to people - Over-apologizes - Few enemies - Extends honor to others - Loyal – fierce anger when close friends or family are hurt (not necessarily angry when they themselves are hurt) - Very sentimental, saves and keeps stuff (can’t always find the stuff) - Works very hard - Attracts dishonor like a magnet – especially in the home - In games and sports, very, very competitive - Doesn’t like public attention or recognition - Can help people with serious problems and walk through areas of deep iniquity without being defiled…Water also created on 2nd day …servants involved in cleansing - Have absolutely no desire to make a name for themselves, or build their own - Kingdom, no selfish ambition

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II. Examples in Scripture a. Esther b. Joseph (husband of Mary) c. Barnabas d. Timothy e. Ananias (that ministered to Paul) Mature Servant Pursues intimacy/relationship with God Sees God as He is, sees themselves from His perspective, walks in true humility Speaks the truth in love, confronts, sets healthy boundaries Embraces order, accepts personal responsibility, utilizes planning and organizational tools God-pleaser instead of man-pleaser, believes God’s word about themselves, serves others while remaining “God oriented”, attracts honor

Leads others to cleansing and holiness

Serves their family in a “healthy way” providing opportunities for others to grow in personal responsibility Balanced, realistic expectations, anticipating the best but choosing to see things as they really are Free to admit and learn from their mistakes, understands God’s grace and compassion, knows that love is not earned Because of their trustworthiness and obedience God can trust the servant with unparalleled spiritual authority. Satan’s only defense against them is to keep them from exercising their authority by never seeing themselves a God sees them. Mature servants can cleanse land, leaders, and have authority over premature death.

Carnal Servant Uses religious activity/service to please God, performance oriented Poor self image, doesn’t think that they matter as a person, embraces the victim spirit, walks in counterfeit humility Martyrs, non-confrontational, complains so that others will set boundaries and confront for them Poor self government, over commits, does too many things poorly rather than fewer things well, makes excuses Others-oriented, man-pleaser, believes what others say about them instead of what God says about them, they allow others to shape them by dishonorable, and slanderous comments, perpetuates dishonor Enables poor character and dysfunctional behavior in others instead of empowering them to change Denial regarding their children, usually meet too many of their children’s needs. Make excuses for their children’s bad character Unrealistic, fairytale expectations, rejects reality, embraces “surreality” Have difficulty not defining themselves by their mistakes and breaking free from shame, perfectionism, low compassion (mercy for some – mercy for none) Misunderstands true humility, and walks in poverty of spirit, thinking of themselves in selfdeprecating, selfdefeating terms. Passes the “work” of spiritual warfare to others they think are more “qualified”

God’s design of the motivational gift of Servant-leaders The servant is designed to create an atmosphere and a physical environment where the King of kings is welcome and feels comfortable in. They are task-orientated yet fulfilling tasks with the aim to help people. They are neither verbally nor emotionally expressive. The design renders them life-giving to the body of Christ. They specifically have great authority in standing against all kinds of situations where the enemy wants to bring premature death, whether physical or in the realm of God-given 15 My Father’s Gifts

ideas, projects etc. In the natural they are often the ones who clean and make sure the chairs are ready for the service but it is very important that the servant understands that this gift has great authority to clean the spiritual atmosphere through warfare and to rearrange and sustain life in the spiritual realm.

Servants easily see what needs to be done and then do what is necessary to meet that need. They have great authority to support leadership by taking tasks off their hands, and therefore opening up time in leaders’ diaries to enable them to spend more time in the presence of the Holy Spirit. They are essential armour bearers to leadership, providing a safe place/atmosphere where leaders can recuperate when they come in from the battlefield. They are intercessors as they can often see what needs to be prayed for. They serve often at great cost to themselves. They focus on leading through service. They are extremely loyal in relationships and to leadership. They are excellent maintainers.

The Battlefield Servants tend to think that they are only able to execute physical tasks in the Kingdom. Therefore they are vulnerable to fall into a victim mentality and to feelings of unworthiness. They struggle to say no and set healthy borders for what they are capable of doing in a set time period. This causes them to be misused and overworked, often to the detriment of their own families. Servants do not easily verbalize their emotions although they influence the atmosphere with it. They have to be careful not to fall into the trap of misguided loyalty. (e.g Queen Esther, Ananias, Barnabas)

3. Redemptive Gift of Teacher I. Behavioral Characteristics - Needs to validate truth - Doesn’t reject or receive new truth immediately—tests them out - Accuracy is absolutely vital - Procrastinates - Makes new decisions slowly, safely; frustrates visionaries - Safe person emotionally - Able to hear any kind of sin in people’s lives without rejecting them—nonjudgmental - Calm in crisis - Angry only when offense is committed against a family member - Find it difficult to return phone calls - Difficulty handling money (1st generational; can impart significant blessing/cursing) - Loves pure doctrine – Greek, Hebrew…searching out truth - Have more confidence in the word of God than in the experiences of men - Great sense of humor, practical joker - Profound loyalty to leaders (Samuel to Saul) (Luke to Paul) - Willing to die for convictions - Has a burden for spiritual, physical, natural healing (priesthood of Levi…Priests handled all medical care in OT) II. Biblical Examples - Daniel - Luke

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- Isaiah - Levi (priesthood tribe) - Samuel - Ezra - Mary (mother of Jesus) …she pondered the things said to her in her heart - Mordecai Mature Teacher Relationship with truth

Values rhema logos and revelation Emotionally/passionately engaged with God and others, values intimacy Walks in the fullness of the responsibility principle Builds structures that steward new revelation As a Leader/Pastor/Parent, confronts sin in their midst

Life-giving/healthy perspective regarding people, infrastructures, principles, and vision, etc.

Releases truth that empowers and equips

Carnal Teacher Values knowledge of God and religious service over relationship with God (looks for more credentials, degrees), arrogance and unhealthy confidence in knowledge Values reason over revelation Cerebral with God and others, not giving of self in relationships, false intimacy Selectively responsible, usually excelling at work, but negligent regarding home responsibilities and family holiness Accepts only what has been documented, ritual, “old wine’ Carnal mercy, carnal love, and carnal guidance that enables sin and sinners; wants to love people into the kingdom – even after the time for repentance has passed (this heart attitude often causes Teachers to be confused with Mercies Poor boundaries, poor future planning and preparation for growth, unbalanced ministry perspective Implements truth in a way that limits and controls others, sarcastic, condescending

Authority over predator spirit, protects those who are weak and wounded

Involved in their own “world” interests, takes two steps sideways or backwards instead of walking in the authority God has given them

Walks in healthy loyalty, can move on , in/with God mutually life-giving relationships

Unhealthy loyalty is perverted by the enemy to keep them in toxic relationships and environments Rejects undocumented truth and spiritual experiences having confidence in “what” they know instead of “Who” they know

Birthright is to have access to “hidden manna” in the Word of God (they can bring out of the storehouse of the Word the old and the new truth combined). This hidden manna also pertains to supernatural intercessory strategies

God’s design of the motivational gift of Teachers God designed this gift to validate truth in and for the body of Christ. They are loving, kind, safe people, verbally expressive and emotionally stable. They passionately share their knowledge with others. They love to do research and will seek answers for any question they are interested in. They

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quote the Bible in context. They tend to accept new ideas and teachings slowly, taking their time to make sure that the seed of the Word they receive and sow, is good, truth based seed.

This is a generational gift, meaning that they have a deep intrinsic understanding that the seed they sow will grow and bear fruit into the next generation’s lives. The fact that the teacher moves slower than most of the other gifts, protects the body of Christ against taking action based on false prophecy, counteracts false teaching and gives the sinner time to repent and return to the Lord. They are emotionally very stable, loving, kind and safe people. They will always try to reason, teach or convince someone of the truth of the Gospel.

The Battlefield Teachers can fall into religiousness and legalism if they do not focus on having a personal and intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that keeps the truth alive. We know that the Bible teaches us that the letter of the law kills. Sometimes teachers tend to teach outside of their families and then lose the emotional connection with their family members. They have to learn to maintain responsibility for their families as much as teaching others the truth of Christ, from a living relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Sometimes they tolerate false teaching – not submitting to it – but not confronting it either.

Confrontation is difficult for the teacher, but sometimes it is unavoidable and God requires of them to confront false teaching. Confronting false teaching in a constructive manner is a component of loving someone, since you are helping that person to discover God’s truth. (e.g. Luke, Esra, Isaiah)

4. Redemptive Gift of Exhorter / Encourager I. Behavioral Characteristics - Party waiting for someplace to happen - Very busy, hardworking, diligent - Visionary – sees broader than the prophet – wants to effect larger numbers of people - Shows God’s extravagance (sun, moon, and stars) - Horizontal focus – no stranger – cracks the code to people – can get into their heart - Inspires, and mobilizes people - No relational barriers – can cross economic, racial, religious lines and build relationships - Passive leadership style – does not lead with a heavy hand - Unparalleled anointing for evangelism – master communicator of all the gifts –ministers the Word more eloquently than any of the other gifts - Can encounter significant disagreements and still maintain relationship - Doesn’t like to be alone – prefers many people around them - Extremely flexible – can adjust their plans - Not intimidated by new ideas, new concepts - Determined - Can reconcile groups of people in cities because of their tactfulness and sensitivity to people’s feelings II. Examples in Scripture - Moses - Jeremiah

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- Apostle Paul Mature Exhorter Controls their time - pulls back from social activities and the horizontal relationships – allocates significant amounts of time alone in order to get to know God, His word Reveals God to people – brings the knowledge of God, shows people their God, His nature

Carnal Exhorter Has good intentions but lacks self government, time management

Mobilizes, influences, and inspires people to reach their full potential in God

Focuses on tasks and visions, inspires and mobilizes people to participate in activities and plans rather than mobilizing them around the purposes of God Uses influence to achieve their personal agenda and goals

Has earned authority/incarnate truth that came by persevering through and embracing pain and suffering in their lives Embraces pain of personal and relational healing

Unwilling to embrace pain/suffering and trials as God’s gift to us in order to “know” Him, grow character Uses tasks and projects to distracts themselves

Has life-giving, transparent relationships

Disconnects from painful relationships, has superficial, sometimes self-serving relationships Can mobilize and gather people, but has nothing to deposit Governs by relationship rather than by principle/more concerned about the approval of people (man-pleasing), oversensitive to rejection and reaction from inside the “camp” Unwilling to confront sin in the “camp” to keep from experiencing rejection – fails to confront sin in the camp in due season Doesn’t want to reap the natural consequences God designed to discipline their poor judgment, administration and leadership – an extension of the unwillingness to embrace pain and suffering Lack of control of their time – spends too much time on the horizontal relationships and not enough time being alone with God – this is why Exhorters fail to possess their birthright more than any other Gifts

Brings balance to the other gifts, reveals missing truth, expands revelation, “stirs things up” Governs by principle, God-pleaser (secure identity), values input and exchange from other gifts Confronts sin in due season

Embraces self-government, operates in established administrative systems, recognizes weakness, solution-oriented Their birthright is to have influence over significant numbers of people by revealing the nature of God to them, has influence over cities and nations, which inspires and mobilizes them into the purposes of God

God’s design of the motivational gift of Exhorters (To encourage and admonish) The exhorter is verbally as well as emotionally expressive and relationship focused. They build networks of relationships with the purpose to build the Kingdom of God. They often have relationships with people across the social borders of church, race and communities. They have a keen sense of the processes and seasons necessary to bring about changes that will reach a goal or vision. They need time to process information and do so verbally.

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The journey is more important than reaching the goal. They focus on the practical action steps of the solution rather than the problem. They learn and teach from experience rather than from theoretical facts only. Application of truth is important. They will seek solutions and truth when they realise that they are experiencing a situation they do not have answers for. They can take abstract concepts and put it into practical language and action steps.

They want to get as many people as quickly as possible into the Kingdom of God. They are good counsellors, accepting of people, and believe in the potential of change in spite of imperfectness.

They are not judgmental and forgive easily. They see big, detailed pictures rather like a wide-angle lens of a camera. They love to celebrate anything and everything and will look for a reason to do so constantly. God created this sense of celebration with the intention that they will celebrate Him and to encourage others to celebrate Jesus!

The Battlefield They spend too much time on relationships with people and too little time on their relationship with God. Rejection from within the group, church etc. can cause the exhorter to compromise the truth of God as they favour keeping the harmony in the group relationships. Conflict in relationships feels like disconnecting, while they were created to connect people. When teaching from experience, it can sound as if they only talk about themselves.

Dying to self, regarding people’s opinions, dealing with rejection from within their inner circle and living for God’s approval only, is one of the most difficult battlefields for the exhorter. An important principle for the exhorter to learn is that what you sow is what you will reap as they tend to want to take the easiest possible way out, sow sparingly and then expect a huge return on their small investment. Living in the truth of God’s reality instead of your own version of reality is an important principle to put into practice.

5. Redemptive Gift of Giver I. Behavioral Characteristics - Versatile and adaptable, flexible (Because of this versatility and flexibility the - Giver is the most difficult gift to peg just by behavioral characteristics) - Generational worldview – not only concerned with their own life, but intentionally try to prepare the way for their family after them - Nurturing – deeply committed to family - Have a heart for evangelism, but do not generally want to “pick the fruit” - Very independent – all the other gifts have a counterpart but the Giver is designed by God to be independent so that they cannot be controlled or manipulated by others - Cannot be hustled or manipulated easily - Relates to a wide range of people - Female Givers have a greater sense of false or hidden motives/agendas, whether good or bad - Non-confrontational – usually delegate spiritual warfare – will instead find unseen options and opportunities to obtain their goals - Money and favor come to them – can find favor opportunities and resources when they themselves have no resources…Favor to buy businesses and properties for which they normally wouldn’t qualify - Don’t like to give to the poor, but will give generously to other good causes/ministries

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Can sustain tense relationships without bringing them to closure – they agree to disagree easily- this contrasts the Prophet who wants there to be a right and a wrong and bring closure to the difference

II. Examples in Scripture a. Abraham b. Jacob c. Job d. Matthew Mature Giver Gives wisely to establish ministries in their time of abundance and in their time of need Trusts God to deliver what He has promised, has learned to trust God and takes financial risks based on faith instead of always waiting for the safe deal Balanced generosity – stands against the destructive forces of excess and indulgence Dependent on God, walks in strong relationship with God instead of relying on themselves – this is result of walking through some significant testing that was designed to teach the Giver Trusts God, sees themselves a s a conduit of blessing

Carnal Giver Gives only in time of abundance

No longer uses religious activity to please God but walks in a true love (heartfelt) relationship, embraces “new wine” Develops life-giving relationship within immediate family Builds/provides for the future based on faith

Walks out their faith like a business contract, keeping their “end of the bargain,” prefers tradition and liturgy Uses unhealthy, emotional manipulations to control family members, petty Suspicious, fearful of what might happened, builds protective “structures” based on fear Doesn’t accept God's absolutes/wants to keep their options open Does not learn from the past well, makes same mistakes over and over but considers each situation as unique and different, resents being confronted about pattern, mistakes, or things from the past Scrooge

Walks in holiness/not casual about God’s absolutes Accepts responsibility for past mistakes, willing to make amends, acknowledges unhealthy patterns

Their authority enables them to utilize their birthright to impart generational blessings of wealth and favor (like Abraham). They also have authority to guard new programs, ministries through intercession – can impart blessing at the beginning of a project and ministry

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Overly cautions, decisions based on fear rather than faith, can’t birth new things

Too frugal with family members, or generous with an intent to control Independent to the extreme, tries to live independent of God - this lack of relationship can cause the carnal Giver to walk in fear and mistrust Puts trust and security in money/possessions, does not see themselves a as a conduit; hoards, puts trust in the extended family

God’s design of the motivational gift of Givers (to impart or to give out) Givers are non-selfish people; they easily give time, money, love, resources etc. They are very accommodating of different opinions. They have a long term vision of provision for others and the next generation. They save, look for the best value for money, and see business and other opportunities that others do not see. They are life-givers to projects and people in various ways.

They are not naïve, and they quickly see and discern false motives and manipulation. They have a combination of a lot of the other gifts’ characteristics. They have an evangelistic outlook, give out the gospel and support evangelistic outreaches. They focus on giving what is necessary to bring life to other’s design, in other words, they will rather teach the hungry the skill to catch fish than only provide in their need by giving them a fish to eat.

They are independent people who look after themselves and others. Have an intercessory role in the body of Christ, offering the sacrifice of prayer and worship, including thanksgiving and praise.

The Battlefield Can be stingy and gather possessions out of fear that they will not have enough tomorrow. Their independence can be a stumbling block as they have to accept dependence on God for salvation and provision. They can focus on meeting physical needs only. Want to be involved in decision making in the ministries and causes they contribute to. They can be prone to control, and criticizing others.

They have to understand that if you give, you give without strings attached. (e.g. Abraham, Jacob)

6. Redemptive Gift of Ruler/ Leader I. Behavioral Characteristics - Early, on time - Natural leaders, like to be in charge (of everything) - Good administrators, implementers, can break down a vision into incremental steps - Thrives under pressure, craves pressure (if pressure is removed they find new pressure to put on themselves) - They like people around them to be under pressure – if they don’t think others have enough pressure available to meet goals, they will create some - Skilled at time management – people often think that they are too busy, but the truth is that they are as busy as they want to be - Extremely concerned about loyalty, cares more about loyalty than competence - Doesn’t like to be micromanaged - Doesn’t need affirmation to do their job, is not manipulated by flattery and favor of men - Would rather fix things than worry about blaming, or finding a scape-goat - Always want things to be bigger and better, i.e., buildings, programs, etc - Can employ and work with imperfect people – can also bring out the best in these people (this is in direct contrast to the carnal Prophet who has a hard time getting past people’s shortcomings) - Not generally spontaneous – doesn’t change schedules and plans easily - Does not typically volunteer, wants to be asked - Extremely diverse in interests, skills - Has high standards in all that they do – God’s empire builders

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Has trouble recognizing when they are wrong, doesn’t believe they are

II. Examples in Scripture a. Noah b. Boaz c. Solomon d. Nehemiah e. Joseph Mature Ruler Applies pressure with wisdom for short periods of time to meet certain productive goals High moral integrity, leads by principle, will take a stands for righteousness regardless of the personal Completes tasks with excellence Shares authority and leadership with others; team player, can partner with other churches for citywide group efforts to evangelize, capacity to restore co-regent (male/female dominion) Leads others in a life-giving manner, doesn’t push people beyond their limits; Aaron’s Rod, builds Kingdom and nurtures people

Carnal Ruler Applies constant pressure to the work/ ministry/ home environment Walks in moral compromise, thinking that their great works/accomplishments are enough to compensate Completes tasks 80%, disregards 20% Self-reliant, doesn’t see the need to partner with others, takes credit for results without recognizing/valuing the contributions of others

Has life healthy relationships

Task and responsibility oriented, doesn’t nurture the key relationships in their lives, “Great Commission” over “Greatest Commandment” During times of family/relational stress will work more to avoid problems Is too busy with the multiple interests and activities to complete key projects, driven by the desire to do more and more, endlessly pursuing more objectives Finds their valued in work and accomplishments, instead of in God

Makes time for relationship building, engages emotionally Completes the key task God has given them, no longer busy and distracted by the multiple interests and abilities they have, they do the “God-thing” instead of all the “good things” Has learned to partner with God – because of this partnership they can get results that are disproportionate to the amount of resources they have – can build and maintain significant ministries with very limited resources Draws balance, correction from the other gifts, allows the Holy Spirit to reveal hidden faults The Ruler is the empire builder; it is their birthright to impart generational blessings to government systems, kingdoms, and nations.

They are specifically anointed to impart blessing on people’s spiritual walk. In spiritual warfare they have authority over unjust, abuse, and righteousness

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Leads or governs others by control and exploitation, over-administrates, is more concerned with meeting “the goal” and finishing the project by deadline than with the people involved in the project

Thinks they are right, can’t receive corrections, will have power confrontations to convince others they are right Judges others, draws righteousness to themselves, “elder brother” syndrome, love of law over law of love

God’s design of the motivational gift of Rulers Rulers are energetic, verbally expressive, task orientated and usually not overly emotional. They are motivated leaders that are passionate about administrating and implementing the tasks necessary to organise e.g. projects. They have the ability to build empires starting with only a few resources. The end goal is important. They are not perfectionists, only focused on “does it work or not?” They make notes, lists, diagrams and pictures to explain concepts. Likes to work with people and has the ability to motivate (even broken and hurting) people to do their best, and to bring them into their calling.

Manage time and priorities well. Has respect for authority, submits easily to authority and expects the same from those they are appointed over. Delegates authority easily and with success. Does not offer to do something – expects tasks to be delegated to them. For them, offering help often means that they are transgressing on someone else’s area of authority.

Once a task is delegated to them they will take responsibility for it and do it right the first time.

Giving them responsibility for a task without delegating the appropriate authority to implement the task paralyses them to such an extent that they will rather withdraw from the task. They are visionaries and excellent implementers.

The Battlefield As a result of regular criticism of being controlling, rulers build walls around them and become even more task orientated and absent in a team. Starts to work on their own or become slave masters.

They can become workaholics as this becomes a way of escaping the pain of relationships and emotional involvement.

Reaching the goal no matter what becomes their focus. The ruler’s ability to build worldly empires can become a stumbling block for living in dependency on God. They can fall into the role of serving rather than leading. (e.g. Nehemiah, Joseph)

7. Redemptive Gift of Mercy I. Behavioral Characteristics - Has few enemies, gets along with everyone - Makes people feel accepted and safe – safe place for people to bare their entire soul - Most sensitive of all the gifts - Sense when wounded and rejected people are in the room - Many friends – few close intimate friends, complete transparency with the few - High level of excellence, unmatched organizational skills - Designed by God for intimacy, which transcends to the physical – needs hugs and touch - Apostle John leaning on Jesus’ chest (important to understand this for young men who have a gift of mercy) - Has easy access to the presence of God. Worship is free money for the Mercy (although all are called and have access to this level of intimacy with God) - Slow to make transition, not of the will but of emotional processing - Knows the heart of God, has difficulty explaining the why, they just “know” - Hates to confront, designed to bring comfort

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Does not hold on to offense, forgives easily except when friends or family are offended.

When family or close friends are hurt they often hold on to the offense Can be very dramatic and emotional, overreacts Drawn into spiritual warfare by their love for others, to end the suffering being caused by the demonic abuse Stubborn (in the nicest way) Loves worship, is concerned that God obtain pleasure from worship

II. Examples in Scripture a. Adam b. David c. John the Apostle d. Ruth Mature Mercy Makes decisions based on Godly principles/ values combined with the heart of God for themselves and others Walks in genuine mercy and judgment, embraces discipline and pain as part of the healing/ growing process Walks in true empathy to lead others to healing and repentance with wisdom and appropriate boundaries

Observes appropriate boundaries, keeps rank

Draws balance from others gifts, has learned to respond rather than react Disciplines consistently avoiding emotional extremes, allows children to suffer appropriate negative consequences God-pleasing, free from the fear of man Has resolved their identity issues, their identity is based in relationship with the Father, has true emotional wholeness, has allowed God to refather them and bring healing to their hearts, can confront sin with love Have found true fulfillment in the spirit-to-spirit connection with God; because of this level of fulfillment and interfacing with God's Spirit, Mercies can actually bring the “glory” out of the Holy Place and can transfer/release that glory to families/situations. When walking in mature holiness, can sanctify time Displays God's heart, His true redemptive plan for man, embraces God's mind, God's ways, God’s truth, along with God's heart. Recognizes

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Carnal Mercy Does not stand on values but does whatever necessary to make people around them happy.

Leads and makes decisions based on feelings Flees pain and the discipline of God, protects others from the appropriate negative consequences, cannot discern counterfeit mercy from genuine mercy Embraces dangerous people who do not demonstrate ‘fruit meet for repentance’, often won’t leave jobs, churches, relationships that are exploitive, victim mindset justifies why it is “right for them to do wrong” Takes up offense for a third party, gets involved where they don’t belong Mishandles/misapplies their discernment, overreacts Doesn’t allow appropriate component of “suffering” in the discipline of their children, thinks love alone is enough Wrapped up in the opinions of men, manpleasing Passes the buck, won’t take a stand on issues, indecisive when crucial decisions need to be made, fearful, insecure, cannot risk, chameleon, won’t confront sin Inappropriate intimacy, pursues selfgratification in all forms, does not have clear emotional identity, cannot walk freely in their dominion, blames external circumstances for agitated state, stays needy rather than becoming life-giving

Motivated by fear and feelings, walks in counterfeit/ immature fruit of the spirit enabling corruption, defilement, “plays

there is no true mercy without judgment

for the wrong team”, enables counterfeit unity and rebellion

God’s design of the motivational gift of Mercy People with the mercy gift are non-verbal, emotionally expressive, loving, kind, safe people that are easily trusted and loved. Rarely have enemies. Father or mother figures to others. Peacemakers, sensitive to the emotional condition of others or groups, in other words they know who feels sad, glad, joyful or rejected.

Does not like to function under pressure. Know how to rest in and move themselves and others into the presence of our heavenly Father. Need a lot of time to process their emotions and make changes.

Has a natural inner joy. Often know things in their spirits that they find difficult to explain or express in words.

Careful what they say and do because they do not want to hurt anyone. Avoid confrontation and do not defend themselves easily. Becomes angry on behalf of others rather than for themselves. The gift has an intrinsic design for seeking Godly excellence. Prefer being in the company of one or two close friends at a time.

The Battlefield If a mercy has been deeply hurt and betrayed by others, they will forgive but find it very difficult to open up to that person again. Struggle to make decisions, especially if someone is going to be hurt in the process. They tend to ignore problems and avoid confronting wrong behaviour, making decisions, or discipline for example children.

Their need for intimacy and fulfilment on spirit, soul and bodily levels often causes the mercy to fall into seeking fulfilment and self-gratification in things like welfare projects, friendships including sexual relationships and substance abuse instead of fulfilling this need in intimacy with God the Father. They are vulnerable to the victim spirit.

Men with this gift are often perceived as not “macho” enough for a man’s world, yet God created this gift with a tremendous ability for godly fatherhood. Their gift of excellence can become perfectionism and performance. Their excellence is often criticized by others with the result that they often have to leave organisations or churches or settle for mediocrity. They often try to keep the harmony in relationships and in the process compromises God’s principles and truth. (e.g. John, Noah, David)

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How does the church function?

It functions as a living body. The church is not simply an organization; it is the living body of Christ, and it must function as a body. Writing to the believers in Corinth, the Apostle Paul said, "Now you are the body of Christ, and members in particular." I Corinthians 12:27 What was Paul saying to these believers? He was saying, "You are the body of Christ in Corinth. Christ is the Head, and you are His body through which He expresses His life in the city of Corinth. You must recognize this great truth—that you are Christ's body— and you must work together as the body of Christ."

What was true of the church in Corinth should be true of every local church today. The local church in a city is the body of Christ in that city and it should function as a living body.

Now, let us think of four great facts concerning how a body functions. We will see that these things are true of our human body, and they are true also of Christ's body.

1. The body has many different members and all are needed.

In my human body, I have many different members—eyes, ears, nose, mouth, hands, fingers, legs, feet. All are different; yet all are needed. Christ's body has many members also. They are all different; yet all are needed. The Bible says, "For the body is not one member, but many...And the eye cannot say to the hand, I have no need of you: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you." 1 Corinthians 12 :14, 21

2. Every member must function.

If my eyes are not operating, I cannot see; if my ears are not functioning, I cannot hear; if my legs are not working, I cannot walk. When any member of the body does not function, the whole body suffers a loss.

Likewise, Christ's body is handicapped when any member of His body is not functioning. Every believer is a member of Christ's body and has a function that is vital to the body. The Bible says that the body of Christ builds itself up in love "by that which every joint supplies."

3. All members must obey the head.

In order for my body to function properly all members must obey the head. This is true of Christ's body also. The Bible says that we are to "hold fast the Head." This means that we are to obey Christ.

The Bible says,

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"...Christ is the Head of the church. . . therefore. . . the church is subject to Christ...." Ephesians 5:23, 24 If we are subject to Christ, we will be subject to God's Word. We will also be in submission to those whom God has placed in positions of leadership in the church. The Bible says, "Obey those who rule over you and be submissive...." Hebrews 13:17

4. All members must work together.

God wants a body—not a lot of single, isolated Christians. The Bible says that we are "one body in Christ." Alone, I cannot serve God effectively.

I must work together with other members of Christ's body.

The importance of the local church Some Christians look at the imperfections in the local church and decide that they do not need the local church. This is a serious mistake. The local church is not perfect—it is made up of imperfect people such as you and I—but it is God's chosen vessel to express the life of His Son here on earth.

When the church assembles, every member of the body of Christ has a God-given responsibility to attend and participate. This includes children, young people, and adults. Each member must answer to the Lord for his or her failure to do this. The Bible tells us that in the last days men will be "lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God."How sad it is when God's people allow the fleeting pleasures of this world to draw them away from their place in the local church.

The body of Christ not only needs me, but I need the body. I cannot be a strong Christian unless I share in the life of the body. When I meet with the other members of Christ's body, I receive strength and life from the body. Have we seen God's plan regarding the local church? Have we seen that He wants a body, a whole body, not just a member here and one there?

By God's grace, I must see that I am a member of the body of Christ in the place where I live. When that body assembles, I must be there and participate. This is not only a great responsibility, but it is also a great privilege—one which we should not take lightly. Many Christians do not have the privilege of freely meeting together.

Don't neglect the local church. The Bible says, "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some..." Hebrews 10:25

RESOURCES -

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If you would like an in-depth study about the spiritual gifts, visit www.plumblineministries.com to find a wealth of teachings by Arthur Burk who teaches on these Redemptive Gifts of the Spirit.

To view in depth teachings by Arthur Burk himself, view on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9CD6CF7C5BBF5F63 Free to celebrate the King http://free2celebratetheking.blogspot.com/2013/08/themotivational-redemptive-inromans-12.html David and Jonathan Inc. Advanced Studies: http://ubdavid.org/advanced/new-life3/newlife3_18.html

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