I don't know about the part of it being a gift from God, but I don't want to get into any long drawn out arguments about it though, other then to say there will be many individuals that when they reach the judgement seat of God they will be sent to hell because they did not have saving faith in Jesus Christ which is a gift from God. Having just said what I just said can't see intellect as being a gift from God, maybe a blessing but I have a tendency to not even believe that.
If it is a blessing it probably is more of a blessing that is giving indirectly to many individuals through the medium of one individual. Basically God using one individual(that really isn't blessed) to bless others down the line of history that are part of a greater or real blessing. I would like to get into my reasoning more but I think I will leave it at my short comment or feeble attempt to explain my thoughts on the subject at hand, and hope some one understands what I'm trying to say.
Yes, "gift" might not be the word. Ability might be a better term.
"Blessing" is a whole different matter - one of profound and eternal significance. I think you and I understand that difference.
What amazes me is that when I read the entire Old Testament last year, God made very distinct references to races, peoples, and nations. He knew the differences quite clearly, and I just don't mean racially. He made the races! But He would reference certain nations as being wicked in their practices and attitudes.
At today's colleges and universities, God would be charged with "hate crimes", assigned reeducation, made to sign a speech code pact, and face expulsion.
Jesus Christ changed human history. ALL are welcome at His table, through the redemption of His sacrifice. People of a race different than mine, who have accepted Christ, are more my brother or sister than members of my own family who have not! And that is the spiritual reality.