Who's ever seen a tea set sold with just one cup? No, of course, a tea pot will usually come with more than one cup, because while one certainly can drink their tea alone - and many of us often probably do - a pot of tea is meant to be shared. We see this same kind of implication as Paul discusses how we are to use our spiritual giftings to build up the body of Christ.

He says, "If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully" (Rom. 12:6b-8). How interesting that it doesn't even seem to occur to Paul that we would have a gift but not share it.

He ends this string of examples with a short and sweet bottom line: "Love must be sincere" (v. 9). My Bible puts that sentence in the next section, but I see the ideas connecting more fluidly: As you pour out, may your love in action be sincere.

As you come to God in prayer this morning, reflect with him on how you're currently using your gifts. Are you using your giftings for service - to build up the body in some unique way? If so, do you view this as love in action? Is your love in action sincere, or do you need a heart check today? Bring an honest heart to the Lord and ask him to form you through this moment to look more and more like him.