How we handle our spiritual gifts is very important. Paul cautions us here to be careful in how, when and where we use our gifts. He places a lot of emphasis on the gift of prophecy being a very helpful gift, and those who can speak in tongues must watch that they don’t exclusively talk in the Spirit lest those around them that cannot speak or cannot understand are left out. It is not God’s intention that we set ourselves apart because of our gifts. To the contrary, we are to use our gifts to glorify him and help each other.
As I read through this passage today, I couldn’t help but understand Paul’s counsel in a new way. After retiring to Mexico, I am constantly surrounded by the native speakers, and many times I do not understand a single thing I hear. I am always relieved when after my feeble attempt to speak, the native speaker asks me, in English, if I would rather ask that again in English. I may turn several shades of red, but until I have a better understanding and grasp of the language, which is my intention, I am often frustrated, or unsure of myself in some situations.
In this same way, if we were attending a church service where people were speaking in tongues the whole time, unless there were also people gifted with interpretation present, there would be a sense of confusion among the people.
So this is a good reminder to us that our gifts are meant to help other people, and if we are seeking self gratification or some other personal gain, we are misusing the gifts God so richly lavished on us.
Again, if you haven’t ever done a spiritual gift analysis, I would encourage you to do so. You don’t want to live another minute without being in God’s will or leaving his gift unopened.
Let’s pray. Father God thank you for the gifts you have given me. I pray that I don’t misuse them in any way. Please give me a clean heart so that I can enter into a time of worship to you. You alone are my source. May I empty myself of me to be ready for you to move. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
