We are Unique. As God’s people our gifts and abilities are for the common good of God’s Kingdom here on Earth. 1 Corinthians 12:6-7 explains that there are different and diverse styles of the Spiritual Gifts. I understand that is because God has made us unique individuals. This makes me realize I should respect the uniqueness of my gifts and my brothers and sisters in Christ.
Our Gifts are Unique
I know I should not be jealous of other people’s gifts, because in 1 Corinthians 12:11-13 it explains that the Holy Spirit gives gifts according to His will. He gives the gifts to each person as a unique individual and as a member of the Body of Christ. Shouldn’t we seek Christ’s help to train us in the use of these very unique gifts and talents we have?
Our Stations in The World
It does not matter if we are Jews or Gentiles, rich or poor. Our stations in the world do not matter in the Body of Christ. Our worldly accomplishments are useless unless, God wants to use it for His purpose. In one Church where I was a member, I heard of a successful business owner that had humble jobs in the Church. He would serve on cleanup crews for the kitchen. People were amazed such a successful man could be such a humble servant for Christ.
I had also heard of a person that had been formerly homeless, being raised up to a position of respect in the Church due to their organizational skills and humble Spirit. These were different Churches with different lessons in humbleness taught uniquely for the Body of Christ. These people served the Church based on where they were called by God to serve.
God’s Perspective
As I read 1 Corinthians 12: 14-27 I found myself thinking it does not matter if a young person has been given gifts and abilities beyond their elders. This young person should humbly take their rightful position in the Body of Christ. Age does not matter to Christ. Elders should lovingly mentor younger members of Christ’s Body. They should respect the position that God has put the young person into and not make their job more difficult because of their age. Our age and position in a family should not matter either. Sometimes God calls the older sibling to support the position of a younger sibling. We can see examples of these role reversals in Timothy being called to lead the Synagogue as a young man and Jacob being called to take the birthright of his older brother.
Unconditional Love
1 Corinthians is known as the Love Chapter in the Bible. From 1 Cor 13:1 we know everyone should use their gifts and abilities based in love. That love should be in the Spirit of Charity, where nothing is expected in return. One way this is evident is through Mutual Respect. God reminds us to not think less of ourselves or others by judging and comparing each other based on Earthly Standards. Worldly success or age in God’s Kingdom is irrelevant. Everything that is done correctly in God is evident through the Fruits of the Spirit, especially love.
Focus on God and Pray
Lord God Almighty, sanctify me in Your Holy Love through Christ Jesus. Help me sow seeds of love and harvest the Fruits of Your Holy Spirit. Help me overcome any doubts that keep me from pleasing You. Help me rejoice in Truth and in Your justice tempered with Your mercy and grace. Help me be slow to sin and quick to repent. Holy Father, Your love never fails us, and You use everything for Your Purpose. Open our eyes to see Your Glory. Be glorified because of Who You Are through Jesus, Your Messiah. Amen.