Gifts in the Body

When we have accepted and understood why God loves us we can begin to understand that everything we do in our lives has a direct effect on His kingdom and his plan of salvation he put into effect in Genesis when Adam and Eve were put out of Eden. But once we have accepted Jesus as Lord the Holy Spirit becomes present in our lives and indwells each believer. With this indwelling comes power and as we spend time in study and prayer we feed that side of our new nature and it will grow stronger. And in its fullness you will experience the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. In Romans 12 is a list of seven areas that the Holy Spirit works in; that a healthy church will have functioning within the body of believers.

Romans 12:6-8, “⁶ In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. ⁷ If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. ⁸ If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

The only person who was ever able to operate in all seven areas was Jesus. Now you may feel like you have more than one but one will always be the driving force in why you serve God. Once you understand which one is your core than you are able to focus on that. It does not mean you do not need to understand the others and allow for opportunities to use them when God presents them. But you will only truly have that one is your central driving force in ministry.

 The scripture goes on to explain some guidelines for the use of these gifts in Romans 12:9-16:

^“9 Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. ¹⁰ Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. ¹¹ Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. ¹² Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. ¹³ When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.

¹⁴ Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. ¹⁵ Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. ¹⁶ Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!”

Once you know what your gift is allow God to strengthen it for his glory feed it through prayer and Bible study. If you are not sure what your gift is ask God to reveal it to you. Inquiry of others that you trust what they believe your gift might be. Understanding what gift God has called you to work in gives you strength to do the work He has placed before you. It also allows you to help strengthen the Body of Christ as we must work together for the growth of the kingdom. Have a blessed day and may God Bless you in whatever gift he has empowered you with.