There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. He distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
1 Corinthians 12:4, 6, 7, 11
How many messages does the world tell us about our gifts, or talents, or skills? Identify your strengths and weaknesses... Constantly look for areas of improvement... Work hard enough to be an expert... 10,000 hours... You have to be born with it...
But Paul gives us a vastly different image of gifts as God intended them, as they are in the Kingdom. First, Paul says that gifts are different, and more diverse than we can imagine. This isn’t news. We all know that people have different gifts. Sometimes this reality instinctually leads us to respond with jealousy, wishing we had someone else’s looks or creativity. God’s vast library of gifts is a beautiful invitation to work together and grow relationships. It’s a call to support others and lean on others where we have blindspots.
Second, despite their differences, all gifts are for the same purpose: “for the common good.” Gifts are given TO us, not FOR us. They aren’t even given so that we can make ourselves better people – ‘the best you possible.’ As Martin Luther said, “God doesn’t need your good works, but your neighbor does.” We are called to use our gifts for others. Gifts, when seen as for us, make us think about ourselves, turning inward. Gifts in the light of God’s Kingdom lead us to care for others, turning outward,
Third, Paul says that gifts come from the same place – from God. Sometimes we naturally see others’ gifts as inherently more or less than ours. You might wish you had someone’s charisma, while not appreciating how strong your own faith is, which is just as much of a gift. Thinking that our intelligence makes us better than someone with spatial skills. But does Paul say we earned them? No, they’re gifts! If they all come from God, then you aren’t defined by your gifts. They can’t be a reflection of your goodness.
What defines you is the fact that God has given you gifts at all. He loves you that much and chooses to use you to love other people. All we need to do is accept them.
Finally, know that God’s gifts and their effectiveness does not depend on how well you respond. God gave us the greatest gift of all in His Son. We rejected Him, but three days later Jesus rose from the dead to save us all. His plans are too powerful for us to ruin. The Giver is Good!
God bless you!
Mark
