The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4 v 7-11
We should serve others "administering God's grace in its various forms". "Various" here literally means "many-coloured". God's people are like a tapestry woven together with many threads of different colours. You are who you are, and have the abilities you do, for a reason — to be a colourful thread in the tapestry, not for self-display but to "serve others", to bring God praise.
Martin Cole was a staff writer at The Good Book Company for many years working on Discover and Engage. He now works for a children's charity. Martin is married to Kirsty and has two children. He is a passionate lifelong supporter of Chesterfield FC.
