Using Spiritual Gifts
The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to the followers of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians, chapters 12 and 13). Gifts are given to use in glorifying our Lord (1 Peter 4:11). And to serve people, especially those of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10). The Holy Spirit uses The Word of God to guide and help us in using our spiritual gifts effectively (John 14:16; 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Different Spiritual Gifts
The Holy Spirit gives many different gifts to the body of believers in Jesus Christ. But he deems that all gifts are important for the glory of God and effective operation of the body of Christian believers.
- The apostle Paul was given many noticeable spiritual gifts. He was “caught up to the third heaven” and received “surpassing great revelations.” He was able to perform “signs, wonders and miracles” (2 Corinthians 12:7). In comparing his gifts and abilities to those of others, Paul said he might have boasted in his great gifts. However, God prevented him from becoming conceited, and forgetting his gift came from God, by giving him “a thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 11:16-33).
- Tabitha (Dorcas) was given less noticeable gifts than those given Paul. However, she and her gifts were important in the eyes of God for what she did with her gifts. “She was always doing good and helping the poor.” When she died, those who were affected by her loving service used their gift of faith to pray to God to restore her to life. God recognized their faith. God used the gift of miracles given to the apostle Peter to restore Tabitha to life (Acts 9:36-42).
Guiding Principles in using Spiritual Gifts
As the Holy Spirit empowers us with gifts, he uses principles of the Word of God to guide us in using our gifts most productively.
- Recognize God’s only begotten Son as his greatest gift to us. (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).
- Loving God with all our heart, soul and mind is the greatest gift we can give back to God (Matthew 22:37; 1 Corinthians 13:13; ).
- Love one another as the Lord has loved you (John 13:34).
- Acknowledge that you and all spiritual gifts come from God, for his glory and purpose (1Corinthians 12:4; James 1:17; Colossians 1:16).
- To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7).
- Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit; but in humility esteem others above self (Philippians 2:3).
- Understand that love is greater than all other gifts; and without love in using our gifts we “gain nothing” from God of eternal value (1 Cor. 13:1-3). Love lasts forever; but all other gifts come to an end (1 Cor. 13:8-10).
- Thank God for opportunities to use your gifts to glorify him, and to serve and do good for others (Galatians 6:10).
The Holy Spirit has blessed all believers with important spiritual gifts. Whatever gifts the Spirit has given you, you should use them to glorify God and serve others. But do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him (Colossians 3:17).
