Scripture

“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. 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.” – Romans 12:4–8 (NIV)

Reflection

One of the most incredible truths of Scripture is that every single one of us is made in the image of God, yet none of us are the same. He knit each of us together uniquely, giving us distinct passions, strengths, abilities, and gifts that were meant to be used for His glory. Every strength we have is given by grace and intended to serve His Kingdom.

Looking back, I can see how God had been shaping parts of my life long before I recognized His hand in it. I was drawn to building things, solving problems, and creating something tangible from nothing. At the time, I simply thought this was my personality or personal ambition. What I didn’t yet realize was that God was patiently preparing me, even when I wasn’t fully aware of Him.

When God pressed on my heart to start Everwest, I felt both willing and hesitant. Willing, because it aligned with how I was wired. Hesitant, because so much of it was far beyond my experience. I had no background in leather, manufacturing, material sourcing, design, or building an e-commerce brand. It felt uncomfortable and uncertain, like stepping into something I was unqualified and incapable of doing. Why would God call me to something so far outside of my comfort zone?

But Scripture reminds us that God doesn’t wait for us to be fully equipped before He calls us. Mark 6:7 reads “Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and GAVE them authority over impure spirits.”. Jesus gave the twelve disciples the authority to accomplish the work He called them to. He calls first, then He equips. Their obedience came before clarity. Their dependence came before confidence.

That’s often how God works. He invites us to step out in faith, not because we have everything figured out, but because He wants us to rely on Him. When we surrender what we lack, he fills the gap.

Romans 12 makes it clear that our gifts are not self-made or self-owned. They are given by God’s grace and meant to be used in service to others. The journey with Everwest has been less about building something of my own and more about learning to surrender, to trust that if God calls, He will provide what’s needed, whether that’s wisdom, strength, endurance, or humility.

God rarely shows us the full picture at the beginning. Instead, He asks for obedience. He asks for trust. And along the way, He shapes us just as much as the work He’s called us to do.

Application

• Where might God be calling you to step outside of your comfort zone right now? Is there an area of your life where fear, uncertainty, or a sense of "not being qualified" is keeping you from obeying His call?
• Are you waiting to feel fully equipped before saying yes to God? Reflect on whether you're asking God for clarity before obedience, instead of trusting that He equips as you go.
• How are you currently using the gifts God has given you for His kingdom?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, on this Christmas Day, we thank You for the greatest gift ever given, sending Your one and only Son to be born into this world, taking on flesh, humbling Himself to dwell among us. Thank You that Jesus came not only to be with us, but to redeem us, to bear our sin, and to make a way for us to be restored to You.

Thank You for creating us with intention and for giving each of us gifts by Your grace. Forgive us for the times we hesitate to follow You because of fear, comfort, or a lack of confidence in ourselves. Help us remember that You do not call the equipped—you equip the called. Give us the courage to step out in faith, even when the path ahead is unclear. Teach us to trust You fully, to lean on You daily, and to surrender our gifts, plans, and ambitions to Your will. May our lives bring You glory as we walk in obedience, knowing You are with us every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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- Jake Bunz, Founder

MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎄