CCOB Devotional

January 2006
Seeing God

In 1 Corinthians 12 Paul speaks to the church about the purpose of spiritual gifts. In these verses he tells us that God distributes spiritual gifts "as He wills" (verse 11), and that they are really "the manifestation of the Spirit given to each one for the profit of all" (verse 7). From this we learn that spiritual gifts should be evident and at work in believers lives, but also that they are not meant to draw attention to individuals, or exalt their ministries. Instead, they are given to each of us at God's discretion in order to make His Presence known, and for the benefit of the whole body.

The manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.
- 1 Corinthians 12:7


In John 3:8, Jesus used the wind as an illustration for the work of the Holy Spirit. The Presence of the Spirit in our lives is like the wind blowing through the trees-you can't see where it is coming from or where it is going, yet, it is evident to all.

When something is made manifest it becomes evident-it comes to light for all to see.

Each spiritual gift that Paul mentions in this chapter brings to light one of God's invisible attributes. When the gifts of the Spirit are working in the church they will bring His character to light in much the same way as the rising sun reveals the hidden landscape. We will see evidence of:
  • His omniscience-in the revelation gifts (word of wisdom, word of knowledge, discerning of spirits). Each of these gifts reveals that He is an all-knowing God.

  • His omnipotence-in the sign gifts (faith, healings, miracles). Each of these gifts reveals that He is an all-powerful God.

  • His omnipresence-in the utterance gifts (prophecy, tongues, interpretation of tongues). Each of these gifts reveals that He is a God who is always present.
Paul said that we should "desire the best gifts" (1 Corinthians 12:30). But how do we know which gifts are the best gifts? The answer to that question depends upon what job God has called us to do. For instance, in my garage I have a number of tools. If you were to ask me which tool is the best tool, I would say, "that all depends on what job I need to do."

So ask God for the gifts that you need for the work that He has for you to do-those are the best gifts. And remember, He not only knows what is best for you, but He also wants to give you exactly what you need. As Jesus reminded us in Luke 11:13, all we need to do is ask Him.

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him.
In Him,


Lloyd Pulley
Senior Pastor

 
  Under His Influence by Pastor Lloyd Pulley


With clarity, wisdom, and humor, Lloyd Pulley succeeds at making the doctrine of the Holy Spirit accessible to all who want to experience the fullness of life in the Spirit. He outlines key principles about the Holy Spirit, and develops these precepts with personal testimonies and powerful insight from great men and women of faith. Under His Influence will give hope to the frustrated and help to all who want to reach their world boldly for Christ.


    Click here to purchase this book!




   
Screwtape Letters Play

Read past devotionals.

Submit a prayer request.

Visit www.ccob.org for the latest news and updates.

Visit Our Other Sites:

• Bridge FM
• Bridging The Gap
• Calvary Christian School
• Verse to Remember