“But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit [the spiritual illumination and the enabling of the Holy Spirit] for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 AMP
Today’s verse reminds us that it will take each and everyone of us to complete the work that God is doing on the earth today! No one individual has been given the key to it all! I love the Contemporary English translation of this verse.
“The Spirit has given each of us a special way of serving others.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 CEV
Serving others, this is the call to every Christian today. We have seen many abuses of the gifts of the Holy Spirt, but it does not negate that they are real and in operation today. Notice the Amplified uses the words illumination and enabling. The word illumination is literally the revelation. It is the word used to describe the moment that a sinner realizes he needs a Savior. Yes, we have been saved unto a new life, but that new life is one of service to others and no longer a pursuit of satisfying of the flesh. We cannot fulfill that call without the infilling of the power of the Holy Spirit! I am reminded of a verse written by the Apostle Paul.
“make my joy complete by being of the same mind, having the same love [toward one another], knit together in spirit, intent on one purpose [and living a life that reflects your faith and spreads the gospel–the good news regarding salvation through faith in Christ]. 3Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit [through factional motives, or strife], but with [an attitude of] humility [being neither arrogant nor self-righteous], regard others as more important than yourselves. 4Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. 5Have this same attitude in yourselves which was in Christ Jesus [look to Him as your example in selfless humility],” Philippians 2:2-5 AMP
Do you see it…selfless humility! That my friends is the total opposite of the world’s philosophy today! But how can I truly live a life like this? Paul gives us the answer a littler latter in this Epistle.
“Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. 9The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9 AMP
May the Holy Spirit living in you today lead you to a place of surrender and good works. Have a blessed day, Pastor Ken150