I once had a friend who, whenever he gave a gift, would accompany it with the words, ‘Please, return it when you no longer require it.’ Andy’s consistent message highlighted his intention behind giving – he believed in giving gifts with a clear purpose. This begs the question: Does God also give with a purpose in mind?
“There 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.” 1 Cor 12:4-7
Spiritual gifts aren’t only meant to amaze us with a spectacular display like fireworks; instead, they are powerful tools that enable us to extend God’s love and grace to others.
In his letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul reminds us that these spiritual gifts all originate from the same source—the Holy Spirit. Although they serve diverse purposes, they all flow from the same loving God. These gifts aren’t intended for our personal satisfaction; they’re given for the betterment of the community. Verse 7 reminds us that “to each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” These gifts are designed to be used in service to others, demonstrating God’s love and grace through practical actions. When we use our gifts for the sake of Christ, we find ourselves in a position to love and serve those whose needs exceed our own abilities.
One of the primary purposes of these spiritual gifts is to fulfil the “ministry of reconciliation. In 2 Corinthians 5:18, we read, “All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” Through our unique gifts, we can mend divisions, heal wounds, and draw people closer to God, fostering love, compassion, and unity within the Church and the world.
These gifts aren’t mere tokens; they are powerful tools that enable us to express God’s boundless love for humanity. Paul describes various spiritual gifts, such as prophecy, service, teaching, exhortation, giving, leadership, and mercy. Each of these gifts plays a crucial role in promoting love and unity within the Body of Christ and reaching out to the world (Romans 12:6-8). The greatest of all virtues is love. In 1 Corinthians 13:1–3, we’re reminded that even if we have the most extraordinary spiritual gifts but lack love, we are nothing. Love should be the guiding force behind our use of these gifts. When we operate in love, we fulfil the purpose of these gifts—to love God and our neighbours. Let love be the foundation upon which your spiritual gifts are built and expressed. God’s purpose in giving spiritual gifts is to foster unity within the Church. Ephesians 4:3 encouraged us to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Our spiritual gifts aren’t meant to divide us but to bring us together. Let us seek unity in the diversity of our gifts, recognising that we are all part of the body of Christ.
Today, let’s embrace the opportunity to use our spiritual gifts for the greater good. Let’s joyfully extend God’s love, reconciliation, and unity to others. As you go about your day, consider how you can apply your unique spiritual gift to bless someone in need. These gifts are divine instruments of love and grace, and through them, we can be a beacon of God’s love to a world in need.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the precious spiritual gifts you have entrusted to us. Help us to use them wisely and selflessly, for the glory of your name and the betterment of others. Guide us to extend your love, reconciliation, and unity to those we encounter, so that through these gifts, we may be a shining testament to your boundless love for all humanity. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk