February 12, 2016
I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. 1 Corinthians 7:7
Paul, in addressing the people of Corinth, expresses a desire. I am sure he would have the same feeling if he was talking to us today. What actually is this word, gift and how does it apply to us?
Unfortunately, for some of us, this gift does not refer to what we exchange on Christmas or give to someone on a special occasion such as a birthday. This is something we have been given from God. Yes, you can think of a few like our spouse, family or friends but I am referring to that special present which He has provided. Paul discusses them within the twelfth chapter of 1 Corinthians. Let’s take this a little further.
In the fourth verse, he records that the Spirit distributes them. We are given these from God Himself. A couple verses later, they are given for the common good. I feel this means a gift is given to improve our character in a way pleasing to the Lord. One writer believes: “God created people as finite, not self-sustaining, beings. Therefore, we have to look outside ourselves to get the things we need. This includes depending on God for everything and being open to His giving to us through other people what we cannot provide for ourselves.” We are like infants in a way to rely on Him but in a sense, this is necessary.
These gifts include messages of wisdom and knowledge, faith, healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, distinguishing between spirits, speaking and interpreting tongues. Paul concludes this list by stating they are given to us as the Lord determines. In addition, “God gives us spiritual gifts so we can work together to serve Him and each other.” They are provided to us so we can “build up His church.” In other words, we are to “dedicate our gifts to God’s service and not to our personal success.” Reflect on this and determine which one applies to your life by reading 1Corinthians 12 realizing what I mentioned is not a comprehensive list.
Prayer: Help us to remember we serve God with what He has provided enabling us to be thankful as His people. Amen.
Jeff Spang