God gives spiritual gifts to help others; the gifts aren’t just for ourselves. As the body of Christ, we are not to walk through life alone but to interact with others as we build each other. After the isolation caused by recent events, it has become apparent how much we need each other. When we have difficulty in life, and someone comes alongside us, it makes a big difference.
A few days ago, a friend texted me in the middle of the night because they needed prayer. After prayer, my wife and I went back to sleep. The next day we found out that the after we had prayed, it had made a big difference in their situation. In many ways, believers are like firefighters, not knowing when someone may need the gifts the Lord has given us.
We Are to Help Each Other
Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts are not for ourselves. 1 Corinthians 12:7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.[1] When I was in my early thirties, I became aware that my gifts were not for myself but for others, and that began to change my life. At about the same time, the Lord called me to go back to school and become a pastor. As I followed the lead of the Holy Spirit, the Lord shifted the gifts I had used primarily for myself to helping others.
In many ways, as we use our gifts to help others, it opens our eyes to why the Lord has placed us on this earth. God calls all of us to use the abilities He has given us to make a difference in the life of others. Don’t believe the enemy when he tells you God can’t use you. No matter what gifts the Lord has given you, they can build up the body of Christ.
Helping Others by Serving
Something about serving and using our gifts makes us feel good inside. As we help others, the Lord helps us notice the needs of others, and we can be helpful to another person. When we help others, it allows us an opportunity to tell others the good news of Jesus and share God’s love. As a believer in Jesus, your gifts can become more apparent as you mature. In addition, as you journey through life, circumstances help you better understand your gifts.
God has a unique plan for your life; your gifts are the equipment He gives you to help carry out that plan. God will never ask you to do something He does not give you the ability to do. When we use our spiritual gifts, those around us are blessed, as are we. To get the most out of what God has for you, seek the Lord to guide you on using your gifts to help others. To learn how God gives spiritual gifts to help others, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/worship-with-spiritual-gifts
[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (1 Co 12:7). Tyndale House Publishers.