THE STORY OF JESUS: 1 Corinthians 12:7-11
“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7)
The Spirit of God shows (manifests) Himself in us in unique ways.
My personality, gifts, resources, opportunities, etc. are different from yours.
I am shaped differently from you, and you are shaped differently than me.
But each one of us is shaped by design, for a purpose – for the common good.
In other words, our ‘gifts’ are meant to be shared, to be used to bless others.
Though we can enjoy them too, their primary function is for the good of everyone.
Our greatest joy is found when we live this way, for the benefit and blessing of others.
In God’s kingdom (ideal world), each person is free to bless others, knowing their needs will be met.
God has graciously blessed our world with enough for everyone, if we would get this.
The disparity between the haves and have nots is not because God has short-changed us.
The Spirit has manifested more than enough blessing for all, yet we are not sharing.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)
How about me; am I using my blessings primarily for my own good, or for the common good?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, why are we so miserable? Its because we don’t get it. We’re blocking the flow of Your blessing, and we’re missing out on it ourselves.