spiritual gifts – Page 2

1 Timothy 6:17-21 – Guard What God Entrusts

Paul’s parting words to close out his first letter to Timothy share great wisdom. While he is using the example of a rich person, I realize not everybody has great riches. In fact, there is more poverty in this world than wealth. If you have healthy bank accounts, Paul’s message should surely resonate with you!

Several readings ago, Paul spoke of being careful of the evil money can evoke. It’s not the money that is evil, it can be used for good. So, Paul encourages Timothy, “Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.” We have all known very generous people, but also seen those who keep all their wealth to themselves.

1 Timothy 4:6-16 – A Mentor’s Advice

Read 1 Timothy 4:6-16

What a great mentor Paul is to Timothy. We can glean wisdom from his letter to apply to our own life of faith. We, too, are called to share with others about what Jesus has done. It’s our job to help others find their way back into God’s loving arms. We certainly cherish what it is like being secure in our relationship with God. That’s certainly good news to share with others.

What does it mean to you to be faithful? While Paul sets a marvelous example himself, he wants to help us (and Timothy) succeed as well. These golden nuggets of truth nearly jumped off the page as I read today. Not only will these make us better followers of Jesus but better human beings in and out of a church setting:

1 Corinthians 14:26-40 – Unity in the Community

Read 1 Corinthians 14:26-40

There are some troubling words in today’s reading—especially for the ladies! We’ll ponder all that, but it seems Paul is still trying to keep the church community in alignment with God’s desire for unity. By setting parameters and expectations for worship, Paul is helping the growing congregation from being a chaotic hot mess trying to do it all!

Paul includes some pretty specific guidelines for the use of spiritual gifts as well. We can all agree that it appears our gifts should work to nurture and bless the congregation. When you look around at your church friends, do you see how God has gifted them each differently? Is everyone using their gifts?

1 Corinthians 14:1-25 – What Gift Is Best?

Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-25

dove flying above an open Bible with light coming from God's word

Paul has been explaining to the Corinthians about spiritual gifts, and he showcases two in this reading: tongues and prophecy. Remember, choosing our gifts is not up to us. The Holy Spirit oversees that and will select the appropriate gift for each of us. We can certainly pray for gifts we hope for, but we may not always get what we want.

I have known people in my life with these gifts. I’ve experienced hearing people praying in tongues and have always been mesmerized by that, wishing I had the gift of interpretation to understand what the Spirit was saying. Wouldn’t it be cool to know what the Holy Spirit found important to pray about? Those must be some very powerful prayers!

1 Corinthians 12:12-31 – Could I Be a Mouth?

Read 1 Corinthians 1:12-31

We are all parts of the body of Christ. I love the imagery Paul uses to help us understand we are all important. We all have a role to play. I said “mouth” for me because God is using me to “speak up” and help people remember to connect with him and his word. But really, I’d be doing the same thing I’m doing even if I was a big toe!

All kidding aside, I love how Paul affirms everyone. In our day and age when sensitivity is at an all time high, this is a particularly good message. Don’t you love when you stumble upon real life solutions within the pages of the Bible? The body of Christ must have all the different parts, and each part is equally important! When we live a truth like that, we can’t help but be more loving to others.