November 10
The Spirit and
Spiritual Gifts
1 Corinthians 12:7
Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
Daily Steps
Having understood that the Holy Spirit produces character (the fruit of the Spirit, Day 317) in every believer, this verse reveals a further aspect of His empowerment: He equips every believer with specific spiritual gifts. These gifts are not for personal recognition, but are a manifestation of the Spirit given for the common good of the church family.
The peace in this principle is found in personal gifting:
The Universality of Gifting: The promise is inclusive: to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given. No believer is excluded. Just as we are all secured by the Spirit of adoption (Day 315), we are all equipped with a unique way to serve (Day 282) and build up the Body of Christ.
The Source and Purpose: These gifts are a manifestation of the Spirit—a visible display of His power (Day 279) working through us. The singular purpose is for the common good. This requires humility (Day 282), ensuring that we use our gifts to strengthen others, not to draw attention to ourselves or foster selfish ambition (Day 290).
The Mandate for Service: Recognizing this truth encourages the believer's purposeful action (Day 274). If you have been gifted by the Spirit, you have a divine mandate and the diligence (Day 292) needed to use that gift for the sake of the spiritual community (The Call to Mission, Day 274).
Your peace is secured by personal gifting. Embrace The Work of the Holy Spirit today by acknowledging the unique way He has gifted you, and immediately seek an opportunity to use that manifestation of the Spirit for the common good of your church family.
Reflective Question
What is one way you have seen the Holy Spirit move or work through you (e.g., teaching, serving, encouraging) that you believe is a manifestation of the Spirit? How can you offer that gift for the common good of your Christian community this week?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to compare my gifts to others or to underestimate the unique way You have equipped me. I thank You that to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given. I pray for the wisdom and courage to use my personal gifting with diligence and integrity. Secure my peace today in the knowledge that I am fully equipped to serve Your purpose through the Work of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
