to each one

1 Corinthians 12: ⁷ But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:

                              ¹⁸ But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.

 

First Corinthians chapter 12 is the "Spiritual Gifts" chapter.  It goes into some depth discussing the wide variety of spiritual gifts that God gives to the church.  Some gifts are more obvious than others and some gifts may appear more "amazing" or impressive.  We may look around and consider others to have received the really impressive gifts and we may look in and feel that we were passed over when the gifts were handed out.  But the Bible says that "the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one...".  No member of Christ's Body is left out because that would be like having a leg with no feeling or a nose that couldn't smell.  If we are in the body we are designed for function...for purpose...and that is what spiritual gifts are all about.  They are spiritual functions for a spiritual body.  The question is not "whether" we are gifted, but "how" are we gifted.  I think a clue to our spiritual gifts may be how we see ourselves ministering to others in the body.  Do you find yourself reaching out to the sick?  Do you enjoy the study of God's Word to teach?  Do you find great joy in praying for others in need?  Do you have a longing to share your faith?  The gifts are meant to be used to give to others.  I believe that it is the Lord who is pouring Himself through our gifts to one another because He is the Head of our body.   Verse 7 tells us so much.  The gifts of the Spirit are given to each one "for the profit of all".

 

blessings (with thanks for the body with all its gifts),

Rob Smith