“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone, it is the same God at work.” 1 Corinthians 12
Paul begins this section of scripture by emphasizing the diversity of spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit to believers. He mentions gifts such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, prophecy, discernment of spirits, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues.
Each believer is blessed with at least one dominant spiritual gift. Do you know yours? Perhaps you naturally find it easy to talk with people and have an interest in what is going on beyond the superficialities. If this is you, it is you have the gift of healing! How good is that?
In God’s economy, while one person has the gift of healing, someone else has the gift of knowledge, which is often described as having an intimate understanding or awareness of something, especially in the context of understanding God’s will, His character, and His teachings.
The gifts of the spirit are meant to be shared and used to serve and help people – believers and non-believers. As followers of Jesus, we are motivated by love to respond when we see hurt and suffering in others.
Gifts are a huge responsibility. The Lord means for us to use them in harmony with other believers and their most prominent gifts. For example, one person speaks in tongues while another interprets what is spoken. One brings healing and another prays. Christians work together to bring peace and hope to the broken just as Jesus once redeemed us with His great compassion.
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Psalm133:1 (KKJV)
“And over all these virtues put on love, which bindsthem all together in perfect unity.” Colossians 3:14 (NIV)
Prayer:
Lord, we know there is so much anxiety and pain going on with people around us—driving, shopping, dining, and doing anything. So often, there is tension and impatience with one another. More than ever, we need You, Jesus.You can help us to bring peace to situations. Show us how to lean on the influence of the Holy Spirit in the day-to-day experiences in our lives. Reveal the spiritual gifts You have given to each of us to help us give our best to others facing difficulty. We have peace because we know You. Thank You, Father.Amen
“Great is the Lord with whom
We have the victory.
He aids us against the enemy.”
Chris Sayburn © 2008ThankYouMusic