1 Corinthians 12:5 - Spiritual Gifts

There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.

This passage is referring to spiritual gifts or talents. I am not convinced that today these talents are received miraculously as they were in the first century, but almost all of the gifts listed are talents which can be studied and learned (healing, languages, etc). People who move into these fields often have a natural ability which leads them in this direction. I think this is just as much a gift as it was in the first century and has the same purpose of the common good (v.7). So, whatever you are good at, whatever you have studied and mastered, it is a gift from the Lord. Use your gift to serve him!

Lord, thank you for giving us gifts and opportunities to serve. Please help us to use our gifts to your glory and for the common good. Amen.

Exodus 31:3-5 - God's artists

And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts.

In this passage, God highlights some of the artists he has chosen. I love that it is not just artistic abilities mentioned but also this artist has been filled with the Spirit of God, wisdom, and understanding. As an artist, you know how much hard work goes into your work. Sometimes it is hard to remember you have a special ability. We often think, "Anyone could do it, it just takes time." But the truth is God has given the artist their special ability.

Lord, thank you for giving us special talents and abilities. Please help us to use those for you. Amen.

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