November 13, 2015:  SOAP #2171: l

Scripture:    1Corinthians (NIV) 14:12 So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church. 1Corinthians (NIV) 14:26 What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church.

Observation:   Paul did not tell the church to try to “use” the gifts, but to try to “excel” in the gifts.  I had not taken much notice of that word before.  God wants an abundance of gifts operating in the church.

Application:  I think that Paul would write to today’s church that we should “USE” the gifts.  Once we use them, we can work to excel in them.  If I never, or seldom, use the gifts, I will never excel.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, help us be the church today that Jesus desires and deserves.  I want to take your word seriously not just to use the gifts you have given me, but to make an effort to excel.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!