By Andrew Williams
1 Corinthians 14:12 (NLT): “So be eager to prophesy, but even more eager to interpret.”
Good morning fellow disciples.
This verse doesn’t explicitly instruct us how to identify our gifts, but it reveals a crucial element in the process: eagerness. Paul’s emphasis on being “eager to prophesy, but even more eager to interpret” highlights the importance of a heart that desires to serve God and His people. Prophecy, in this context, refers to speaking God’s message to others, while interpretation involves clarifying and making that message understandable. Both are crucial for edification.
The emphasis on eagerness suggests that the discovery of our gifts is not a passive process; it requires a proactive desire to serve. It’s not about waiting for God to magically reveal your gift; it’s about actively seeking Him and being open to His leading.
Empowerment from the Verse: This verse empowers us to take ownership of our spiritual journey. It’s a call to action, a challenge to move beyond passive observation and embrace an active pursuit of understanding God’s plan for our lives. It’s not about forcing a gift upon ourselves; it’s about cultivating a spirit of eagerness, a willingness to serve, and a desire to use whatever abilities God has given us for His glory. This eagerness will often lead you into situations where your gifts naturally surface.
Your Task: Today, I encourage you to cultivate an eager heart. Pray for God to reveal your gifts. Look for opportunities to serve in your church and community. Don’t be afraid to try new things, even if they seem outside your comfort zone. Pay attention to what brings you joy and fulfillment. What activities energize you spiritually? What talents do others notice in you? Where do you feel a natural inclination to serve? These are all potential clues pointing towards your spiritual gifts. Be willing to step out in faith, trusting that God will equip you for whatever task He calls you to.
Prayer: Father God, we thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit and the unique abilities You have given each of us. Help us to cultivate an eager heart, a desire to serve You faithfully. Open our eyes to see the opportunities You have placed before us and empower us to use our gifts to build up Your Kingdom. Amen.