Weekend Wonder

1 Corinthians 12:4-13, Paul reminds us that our spiritual gifts are given to us not for our own glory or advancement but for “the profit of all."

The film Pay It Forward tells the story of how one young boy's act of kindness touches the lives of a succession of people. One kind deed leads to another as each recipient “pays it forward” to someone else.

Jesus said that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Yet often we act as though His gifts are for our exclusive benefit and enjoyment. The Spirit's anointing makes us fit to be in the King's presence. He gives us gifts so we can give them away. To hoard a gift or to seek one for our own profit is to prostitute its purpose.

When Philip preached the gospel in the city of Samaria , one of his converts was a man named Simon who had previously practiced sorcery in the city. Simon had amazed many people with his magic. After Peter and John arrived in the city and imparted the Holy Spirit to the new believers, it was Simon's turn to be amazed. He offered them money if they would give him the same power of imparting the Holy Spirit. Peter justly condemned Simon for his greed and selfishness and for thinking that “the gift of God could be purchased with money!”

In contrast to Simon's attitude, Paul said, “ There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all .” Our spiritual gifts are not for ourselves but for others . Paul says we are all members of the body of Christ. Each member is important. When we work together in selfless giving, the body is complete and fully functioning. Jesus said, “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” Give freely of your gifts!