Devotionals for November 29, 2023
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READ
1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-11
here are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
here are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
REFLECT
Paul makes it super clear that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes gifts to people “for the common good.” This passage teaches a few important truths: First, it’s not about you. It’s about submitting to the Holy Spirit and serving others through Christ. Second, spiritual gifts are up to the Holy Spirit, not people. This should offer you relief from having to perform or act a certain way to appear more spiritual. Lastly, this gives you freedom to enjoy the way God uses you and others to serve the Body of Christ. There’s no need to envy or to think, I wish I could be spiritual like them, when it’s the same Holy Spirit empowering all of us.
APPLY
Q: Why is it important that the Holy Spirit determines how to portion His gifts?
Q: When are you committing time to prayerfully submit to the Holy Spirit for direction?
Q: How can you benefit your church and community through your spiritual gifts?
Q: When are you committing time to prayerfully submit to the Holy Spirit for direction?
Q: How can you benefit your church and community through your spiritual gifts?
SING
PRAY
"Give us today our daily bread."
Lord, thank you for being my provider in all things physical and spiritual. I brought nothing into this world, so all that I have is yours. Please give me clarity on how you want to use me to serve your Church. Humble me and direct me through your Holy Spirit. I praise your good name! Amen.
Lord, thank you for being my provider in all things physical and spiritual. I brought nothing into this world, so all that I have is yours. Please give me clarity on how you want to use me to serve your Church. Humble me and direct me through your Holy Spirit. I praise your good name! Amen.