By Rev. J. Loren Russell
1 Corinthians 12:11
11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.
Having a spiritual gift is not a badge of honor, an insignia of achievement, or a special endowment given because of some great deed that was done. Spiritual gifts are given at the Lord’s discretion to be used for the glorification of His name, the edification of His people, and the stewardship of His creation.
While not everyone is given the same gift, the source is always the same, the Lord God Himself. The short list of gifts Paul provides in verses 1-10 is not exhaustive by any means. These gifts of wisdom, words of knowledge, faith, healing, discernment, tongues, and interpretations are to be cultivated so that the work of the Lord gets done.
When a person receives the spiritual gifts Paul identifies, whatever gift they receive is a blessing from God. It is a blessing for them and for whoever they share their gift. A story is told in the Bible of a female disciple named Dorcus. She was gifted with the ability to make beautiful clothing. This gifted woman died. Many mourners came to bid their farewells. The women came royally arrayed in the clothes Dorcus had made for them. The Bible says she bought glory to God doing good works and performing charitable deeds. She may not have one of the gifts that Paul spoke of, but the Lord has something for everyone. Dorcus’ faithfulness bought about another gift that she received. It was a gift she would never have thought to ask for herself. Dorcus, you see, was resurrected from the dead.
In the last verse of chapter 12, Paul tells his readers that they should have an intense desire for the “best” gift. In chapter 13, Paul introduces the gift of agape, the gift of love. Love is the gift given by the same God who gives “all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.” If you have no other gift, this one is available to every person. Love is the gift that proves there is something for everyone.
Be Blessed!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial Strategy & Consulting; an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx; and creator & host of “-” Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM. Listen on Matters of Faith on Facebook LIVE.
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