We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. (Rom. 12:6)
Expanded Passage: Romans 8:26-29; 12:1-8
A decade or so ago the American Medical Association came out with a report that said even the lowly appendix has a purpose in the human body. For centuries some thought the appendix was a useless part of the human anatomy, having no positive function. Yet that is not the case. The appendix is needed after all. And just as with the human body, there are no useless parts in the body of Christ, the church.
Spiritual gifts are given to individuals by God for the purpose of building up the church of Jesus Christ. These parts are interdependent and have specific functions to keep the body working properly. It is important to know and use your spiritual gift or gifts so that the church can thrive. It is also important to recognize the gifts and graces of others so you will receive and appreciate the ministry God offers through them.
The bottom line is that all followers of Jesus have at least one spiritual gift. All are needed to help the church be as effective as possible in reaching the lost and discipling believers. We were not made to go through life alone. We need the God-given gifts of those around us. They represent God’s grace at work for our good. All in all, we need each other!
Lean into your spiritual gift today, or ask God to reveal it.
Jim Dunn is the president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University. He previously served as the executive director of the Church Multiplication and Discipleship for The Wesleyan Church.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
