THE EQUIPPING MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Part 4
In this pen pulpit we conclude the study of the permanent spiritual gifts.
Showing Mercy (Romans 12:8) –The ability to have compassion for those suffering affliction and to effectively meet their needs. One who has this gift is one whose emotions are generally aroused at the sight of suffering with the desire to do something about it. Such a one will be like a sunbeam in the presence of suffering.
Faith (I Corinthians 12:9) - The unique ability to believe God for great things in the church….to rely upon God for special occurrence.
Discerning of Spirits (I Corinthians 12:10) -The unique ability to discern between the true and the false, with respect to the things of the Spirit within the Body of Christ….the ability to see through people.
Helps (I Corinthians 12:28) - The ability to render assistance to those who have personal needs, to be able to come to the aid of another, to relieve his burden, to render assistance to the Body in time of need.
Government/Administration (I Corinthians 12:28) - The ability to give direction in the practical affairs of the church. The emphasis is upon “giving direction.”
Some of the gifts such as ministry and helps may be exercised in hundreds of different ways.
THE DISCOVERY OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS
There are various Biblical and logical principals by which one may come to know his/her spiritual gift(s). The following are some of the basic principals:
1. Information - One must have a knowledge of the spiritual gifts as listed in the gift passages – Romans 12:3-8; I Corinthians 12. Note: There is a definite connection between Romans 12:1, 2 – a prerequisite to knowing the will of God, with verses 3-8 – a revelation of the will of God.
2. Acceptance - An understanding and acceptance that you have a spiritual gift. Each believer has one or more spiritual gifts. It is not to be sought after, they are gifts (I Peter 4:10; I Corinthians 12:7,11).
3. Desire - Check your desires along this line. God puts the desires into the hearts of Spirit-filled believers to do what He (God) wills (Psalm 37:4).
4. Observation - Look for the blessing of God upon your ministry (I Corinthians 12:7)
5. Confirmation -(Galatians 2:1-15) What do others say about your strengths?
THE DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF YOUR SPIRITIUAL GIFTS
Spiritual gifts must be developed and matured. How does one go about developing his/her spiritual gift(s)? The Word of God is very specific in this area. USE YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFT. A body member that does not function does not develop him/herself nor does it profit the body.
3.
Ministry – The Body of Christ needs your ministry. The gifts are for body profit.
The only way in which the Body of Christ can profit from your gift is if
that gift is ministered to the body.
Gifts are developed through use (I Peter 4:10,11; I Corinthians. 12:7).
4.
Availability - Be available for service (Isaiah 6:8; Romans 12:1).
Beloved put your Spiritual gift into service for the
LORD. God bless.
P.S. As I look back over this past year, I can’t let this Thanksgiving Sunday go by without giving special thanks for so many things – my salvation first of all, my family which includes all of you dear folk, continued healing for my body (I can now walk to the pulpit) and the list goes on and on.
So you see I’ve got a lot to be thankful for this season. Let me challenge each one of you to also look back over the past year. Take a pad and pen and try to list the significant events that have transpired in your life. How do they connect? You know there are no accidents in the Christian’s life. Every event, small or large, is divinely appointed for your good. It is easy to thank God for the blessings expected. It’s a little more difficult to render thanks for those little inconveniences that come to us every day.
Can’t think of much to give thanks for? Try back-pedaling through the year. You will come up with plenty. I guarantee it! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving season.
Love to you all,