We have been in the LIMITED series, and this week, we’re focusing on GIVE. If we start with what God has given us, we can much more easily look at how we can then steward that gift. In 1 Corinthians 12:7, Paul tells us that each believer is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. We can break this down into a few parts:
- We have received a gift from God: our spiritual gifts aren’t earned through our own efforts or achievements. They are divine gifts from God, granted by grace. Our God is infinitely wise and gifts each of us so that we can take part in advancing His kingdom.
- The presence of the Spirit: spiritual gifts aren’t simply talents or skills. They are “a manifestation of the Spirit”: tangible evidence of the Holy Spirit’s presence within us. When we operate in our God-given gifts, we bear witness to the transformative power of the Spirit in our lives. Our words and actions become instruments through which the love and grace of Christ are shared with those around us.
- For the common good: the ultimate purpose of these gifts is “for the common good.” They are not for personal gain or self-promotion but are intended to benefit the entire body of believers. Our spiritual gifts are tools for building up the Church, fostering unity, and serving the community around us. They are expressions of God’s love and mercy that we are called to share generously with others, just as God shared generously with us.
Let us be encouraged that God loved us so much that He has gifted us His Holy Spirit and specific giftings so that we can pursue what God has called us to do! Let us be spurred on to share our gifts with those around us!