Every Believer Carries Something

Devotion for Thursday, July 30

I prepared this devotion before leaving for my sabbatical. Thank you for praying that the Lord would grant me times of refreshing in the presence of the Lord.

1 Corinthians 14:1

“Pursue love, yet earnestly desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.”

God has entrusted every believer with something that can strengthen someone else. Spiritual gifts are not given to make us feel important or appear more spiritual. They are expressions of God’s love flowing through ordinary people for the good of His church. The question is not whether God wants to use His people. The question is whether His people are willing to be available.

Faith grows when we begin using what God has already placed in our hands. Waiting until we feel fully prepared often keeps us from discovering how God wants to work through us. As we step out in faith, God develops the gifts He has already given and uses them to bless others.

Reflection:
What ability, opportunity, or spiritual gift has God already placed in your life? Ask Him to show you one practical way to use it to serve someone today, then take that step in faith.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for giving every believer a place in Your work. Help me pursue love and eagerly desire the gifts You want to develop in my life. Use what You have placed within me to strengthen, encourage, and point others to Jesus. Amen.