Using Our Spirit-given Gifts
Scripture Reading — 1 Corinthians 12:4-27
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
Having had a few minor surgeries, I’ve grown aware and appreciative of the intertwined complexities of the human body.
Writing to the Corinthians, Paul describes the body of believers in terms of a human body to show how everyone depends on one another. This helps us to understand Christ’s command to love each other. Our differing giftedness is for the common good, not for selfish pursuits or desires.
Early in his letter to the Christians in Corinth, Paul says, “You do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus” (1 Corinthians 1:7). And yet they were hardly an ideal congregation.
Today’s teaching is clear. Every person in the body of Christ is important. And no body part may tell another part that it’s not important. Spiritually gifted believers must use their gifts for the common good.
With that in mind, we recognize that all followers of Jesus have gifts to be used to contribute to the whole body’s well-being. The Holy Spirit empowers each of us to use our gifts and abilities for the good of others, guiding us to build up the body of Christ.
What are your spiritual gifts? Are you using them to God’s glory?
Thank you, Lord, for teaching us that everyone in the body of Christ is important. Help us to know and appreciate our gifts so that we may use them to help others and glorify you. Amen.
About the author — George Vink
Pastor George Vink has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church for more than 30 years in British Columbia, Montana, Michigan, and California. He and his wife, Shirley, have four married sons and nine grandchildren.
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