An honest skeptic will give the gospel a fair hearing. He will be willing to consider the evidence for the truthfulness and unique authority of the Bible. He will examine and test the claims of all who say they have a message from God. He will recognize that Christians have a rational basis for their faith and that there are sound reasons for their hope.

The right kind of giftedness is essential to our effectiveness in the LORD's work. Factors such as talent and experience have their place. But God, through the Holy Spirit, supernaturally endows every Christian with unique spiritual gifts to serve His church. We function best and accomplish the most for the LORD when we do what we have been gifted to do. It is fruitless and frustrating to try and be something we are not. God wants each of us to discover and confirm our gifts. Some of us might feel uncomfortable talking about our strengths, but these are not abilities we can take credit for. The Creator Himself has put these gifts within us to benefit others and to fulfill His purposes.