The Spirit Who Equips with Gifts

Every believer has a role to play in the body of Christ. None of us is called to sit on the sidelines. Yet, if we are honest, many feel unequipped or unsure of how God can use them. The good news is that God has already given His Spirit to equip each of us with gifts that are both unique and essential. These spiritual gifts are not intended for personal recognition, but rather for building up the church and advancing God’s mission in the world.

Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:7 that the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each believer for the common good. This means that every disciple of Jesus is gifted, empowered, and called to serve. The Spirit equips us so that the church can flourish and the gospel can spread.

“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

(1 Corinthians 12:7, ESV)

The Holy Spirit equips every believer with spiritual gifts to build up the body of Christ and glorify God.

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Big Idea 1: Spiritual Gifts Come from the Spirit, Not from Us

Spiritual gifts are not talents we develop on our own; they are divine empowerments given by the Spirit. Paul makes it clear that “to each is given,” no one is left out. Whether the gift is teaching, serving, encouraging, leading, or any of the other gifts mentioned in Scripture, the source is the same: the Holy Spirit.

This truth reminds us that we cannot boast in our gifts. They are not signs of spiritual superiority but of God’s grace. Our role is to steward them faithfully, using them for His glory rather than our own. Recognizing the Spirit as the source of our gifts keeps us humble and dependent.

When we understand that our gifts are Spirit-given, we stop comparing ourselves to others and start celebrating the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ.

Big Idea 2: Spiritual Gifts Are Given for the Common Good

Paul emphasizes that the purpose of spiritual gifts is the common good, the building up of the church. Gifts are not meant for personal gain or recognition. When exercised rightly, they strengthen the body, encourage believers, and draw people closer to Christ.

Think of the church as a living body, with each member serving a vital function. Just as a hand cannot say to the foot, “I don’t need you,” no believer can say their gift is unimportant. The Spirit equips us differently so that together we reflect the fullness of Christ.

When we use our gifts for the benefit of others, the church becomes a vibrant and healthy community. The Spirit equips not for isolation but for interdependence.

Big Idea 3: Spiritual Gifts Empower Us for Mission

The Spirit equips us with gifts not only for building up the church but also for advancing God’s mission in the world. In Acts, the Spirit empowered believers to proclaim the gospel with boldness, perform signs and wonders, and demonstrate God’s love in practical ways. Today, the Spirit continues to equip us to serve, witness, and make a positive impact in our communities.

Your gift, no matter how small it may seem, is part of God’s plan to reach the world. A word of encouragement, an act of service, or a gift of teaching can open hearts to the gospel. When we yield to the Spirit and utilize our gifts, God multiplies the impact far beyond what we could accomplish on our own.

The Spirit equips us not to remain comfortable but to engage fully in God’s mission, both inside and outside the church walls.

Conclusion

The Spirit equips each believer with gifts that are vital for the health of the church and the advance of the gospel. No one is left out, and no gift is insignificant. Together, we reflect the beauty and power of the body of Christ.

As you reflect on your own life, ask yourself how you are using the gifts God has entrusted to you. Are they lying dormant, or are they being exercised for the common good? The Spirit equips you for a purpose: to glorify God, build up others, and share Christ with the world.

Action Step

Take time to identify one spiritual gift God has given you. If you are unsure, ask trusted friends or mentors in your church to help you discern it. Then commit to using that gift intentionally this week to bless someone else.

“Spiritual gifts are not for personal enjoyment but for the building up of the body and the accomplishment of God’s mission.” – John Stott

What gift has the Holy Spirit given you, and how are you using it for the common good? Share your thoughts in the comments to inspire others. Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more devotionals and encouragement in your spiritual journey! If this post encouraged you, consider sharing it on your social media or reposting it on your blog to inspire others.

Prayer

Holy Spirit, thank You for equipping me with gifts for the common good. Help me to use them faithfully, not for my own recognition but for Your glory. Show me how to serve others and build up the church through the gifts You have entrusted to me. Amen.

It begins with Christ!

If you don’t know Christ as your savior, it begins with the first step. Believe in Him and make Him Lord of your life! Committing your life to serve Him is the most significant decision! For more information on serving the Lord, CLICK HERE!

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Blessings,

Chad 

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