WHAT GOD WANTS ME TO DO (Thursday)

Aug 11, 2022
2 min read

1 Corinthians 12:27-31

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of administration, and of different kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.

The body of Christ is composed of all believers. Indeed, the body is a unique mix, as God has created everyone differently. He has given me a different personality, different looks, different desires, different talents, and different gifts than everyone else.

The Apostle Paul distinguishes some of the gifts that believers possess here. He makes it a point to let the reader know that everyone has different gifts. If everyone had the same gifts, we wouldn’t get anything done, and how fun would that be?

There are some who have the gift of teaching. When they teach God’s Word, people listen and learn. There are also some who have the gift of administration: they crave organization and are good at keeping things in order. Those with the gift of helping can’t wait to help someone else, and it seems like they are always helping someone.

Spiritual gifts are works of the Holy Spirit and are manifestations of God’s grace through me. When I’m using my spiritual gift, I see God working through me.

THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS: God gave me my spiritual gift, and He creates His desires in me. Paul states that I am to eagerly desire the greater gifts. If I submit to the Lord’s desires in my heart, Paul is stating that God desires even greater gifts for me.

I have also seen this in action. I’ve seen a shy introvert become a dramatic public speaker. I’ve seen someone who liked to help people lead many to the Lord. The key to desiring greater gifts is first recognizing the gift God has given me and begin using it. God can use that gift to multiply His Kingdom, and He may also multiply the gifts He gives me.

Lord, today I eagerly desire to use the gift You chose to give me in obedience to You. Please guide me on Your way, showing me where, how, when, and to whom to apply this gift. Thank You, Lord, for Your amazing gift of grace on my life. Amen.

May you be blessed,

Chaplain Wayne Ruckman