GIFTS HELP THE CHURCH

 

GIFTS HELP THE CHURCH

I Cor. 12:7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church. NLT

God has given every believer a spiritual gift(s). There is no exception. Each one of us has been given a role to play in the Church suited to how He has made us and led us through life. Each of us can help carry out the cause of Christ and are obligated to do so. If we fail to do our part in the ministry of the Church, it is sinful disobedience. You can’t do what you can’t do, but are held responsible for what you can do. You are not to try and fill someone else’s shoes; you are to fill your own. God made you uniquely you independently of anyone else. There is no such thing as a Christian who is not gifted in some way. We must know our giftedness and use it for the glory of Christ. If you don’t know yours, seek out the help of others and God to find it. Failure to do so leaves a big gap in the life of the church that only you can fill.

Also, we are gifted so that we can help the entire Church. When we all do our part, the church is whole and healthy. She is then able to be an effective witness and servant of Christ in the world. We do what we do for the sake of the body, not ourselves. Gifts are given to serve the Lord, not to draw attention to ourselves or for our benefit.

Because of our sinful nature, we must diligently guard our souls in this. We like the attention, glory, and rewards. We are prone to feast on them and even use them for selfish gain. In order for us to not sin in this, we must stay closely connected to Christ. We must always keep Him first in our hearts so our minds don’t lead us astray.

Beware: Satan will try to get you to use your gifts selfishly. He will do his best to keep you from serving the Lord with pure motives. He wants you to get you to have a big head because of your giftedness and abilities. You must resist him and do all you do for the glory and honor of Christ in His Church for everyone’s common good.