Finding Your Gifts: 1 Corinthians 14.26-40

There are several words that are used in the New Testament to describe the relationship of the individual with the Holy Spirit. Each of these helps us to understand a different facet of the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life.

1. Bapto: to be immersed. This carries with it the idea that the one baptized in the Holy Spirit is changed, or is changing. See Acts 1.5.
2. Chomai: Comes upon. When the Holy Spirit comes upon a person s/he is re-shaped to be more like God. See Acts 1.8.
3. Poured out. This picture includes the generosity with which the Holy Spirit comes. He is poured out on everyone. The pouring is saturating. See Acts 2.17.
4. Pleroo: Filled to overflowing. The Holy Spirit fills the vessels (you and I) that are willing. This infilling is so complete that it spills out and affects those around us. See Acts 2.4.
5. Epipto: Falls upon. There is no question that the Holy Spirit has a heavenly origin. He falls upon those who receive him. See Acts 10.44.
6. Lambano: Receive him. Those who are to be filled with the presence of God through the Holy Spirit must voluntarily submit and receive him. See Acts 8.17.

Spiritual Gifts

The New Testament provides at least four lists of spiritual gifts (gifts from the Holy Spirit). Although these lists certainly do not include all the gifts of the Spirit, they give us a good context for our expectations, and a starting place for our prayers and our discoveries. Those passages and lists are as follows:

1 Corinthians 12: Miracles, healings, helps, administration, speaking in tongues, wisdom, knowledge, faith, prophecy, discerning of spirits, interpretation of tongues.

Romans 12: Prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leadership, mercy.

Ephesians 4: Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers.

1 Peter 4: Speaking, ministry, suffering.

What are Your Gifts?

Here are three questions to help you find out what gifts the Holy Spirit has given you, or wants to give you. Honestly ask yourself these questions.

1. What are your interests?
2. What are your natural abilities?
3. What is God stirring up in your heart?

Now, pray for the Holy Spirit to fill your life, and give you the gifts that will make you a better Christian.