Going Deeper in “Thankful for the Gift of You”
Read the following a few times:
1 Co 1:1–9; 1 Cor 12:4-7, 12-27; Rom 12:4-6; Eph 4:1-7, 11-16
Reflect on the following:
1. Paul says he is thankful for the people in the church—even though they are far from perfect. Why is it sometimes easier to criticize people than to appreciate them?
2. Verse 5 says God enriched them in every way. What are some different gifts you see in your youth group or church (music, kindness, leadership, humor, tech, listening)?
3. Why do you think God gives different gifts instead of giving everyone the same ones?
4. How does the idea of the Body of Christ help us understand why every person matters—even quieter or less visible people?
5. What happens to a team (sports, band, gaming squad) when everyone tries to play the same position?
6. Paul says the church lacks no spiritual gift. What might change if we truly believed our church already has what it needs?
7. How do comparison and envy quietly weaken the Body of Christ?
8. When have you felt like you didn’t belong? How does this passage speak to that feeling?
9. What is one way your presence—just being you—makes the Body of Christ stronger?
10. How might intentionally expressing gratitude for others reshape the culture of your church or small group?
Spiritual Challenges:
1. The Gratitude Note Challenge - Write a short note, text, or email to someone in your church thanking them specifically for the gift of who they are—not just what they do.
2. The Gift-Spotting Challenge - Each day this week, intentionally name one spiritual gift you see in someone else and silently thank God for it.
3. The Prayer of Thanksgiving Challenge - Add one sentence to your daily prayers: “God, thank you for the gift of ______ in my life.” Rotate names throughout the week.