How can believers actively seek and use spiritual gifts mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:9? Setting the Foundation • “to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:9) • Every spiritual gift is a gracious “manifestation of the Spirit…for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • God’s Word presents these gifts as real, present-day workings, not mere historical curiosities (Hebrews 13:8). Understanding the Two Gifts Named • Gift of Faith – A Spirit-empowered surge of trust that moves mountains others deem immovable (Mark 11:22-24). – Seen when Peter walks on water (Matthew 14:29-31) and when believers in Acts confidently face persecution (Acts 4:29-31). • Gifts of Healings (note the plural) – Diverse operations of divine health: physical, emotional, even societal restoration (Luke 9:6; Acts 5:15-16). – Jesus commissions His followers: “They will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover” (Mark 16:18). Cultivating a Heart Ready to Receive • Desire earnestly: “Pursue love, and earnestly desire spiritual gifts” (1 Corinthians 14:1). • Maintain holiness: a clean vessel is ready for noble use (2 Timothy 2:21). • Immerse in Scripture: faith grows by hearing the Word (Romans 10:17). • Commit to corporate worship: gifts flourish in the body, not in isolation (Hebrews 10:24-25). Practical Steps to Seek These Gifts 1. Ask specifically – Pray with expectancy (Matthew 7:7-11). – Name the gift before the Father, trusting His wisdom in distribution (1 Corinthians 12:11). 2. Align motives – Aim to exalt Christ and serve people, never to build personal platforms (1 Peter 4:10-11). 3. Submit to church leadership – Allow pastors and elders to test and confirm manifestations (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21). 4. Fast and pray – Combine spiritual disciplines to sharpen sensitivity to the Spirit (Acts 13:2-3). Walking Out the Gift of Faith • Speak God-sized promises aloud when prompted (2 Corinthians 4:13). • Stand firm until the answer manifests; wavering erodes effect (James 1:6-8). • Encourage others’ faith—this multiplier effect builds the whole church (Romans 1:12). Ministering the Gifts of Healings • Lay hands with compassion (Mark 1:41). • Declare Jesus’ authority over sickness (Acts 3:6). • Expect varied results—instant, gradual, or unseen yet certain (Mark 8:24-25). • Document testimonies; they stir faith and give glory to God (Psalm 105:1-2). Safeguards for Ongoing Use • Remain teachable; correction prevents pride (Proverbs 9:9). • Stay accountable; the Spirit’s work is verified in community (1 John 4:1). • Guard love as the operating system; without it, gifts lose value (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). Encouragement to Persist The same Spirit who inspired Paul’s words still distributes gifts today. Keep seeking, keep yielding, and watch the Lord build up His people through faith that moves obstacles and healings that reveal His compassionate power. |
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