Word For Today

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
- 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

God has given you gifts and talents wonderful abilities that make you unique and special. He gave them to you with a precious purpose: for you to use them and bless those around you. You can make this world a better place by using what God has given you for the benefit of others.

Do you enjoy helping others? That is a gift from God. Not everyone finds satisfaction in helping and serving others. Put your gift into action this world needs it.

Do you notice that people feel encouraged when you speak to them? Does God send you to encourage others with your words and advice? That is also a gift, do not stop using it.

When we use our gifts, we allow the Spirit of God to flow. We do not move by our own strength, but by the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit,to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
- 1 Corinthians 12:8-11

Do not waste your gifts by hiding them, comparing yourself with others, or wishing to be like the people you know who seem more successful. Admire God’s work in your life, develop the gifts and talents He has given you. Use your gifts, make a difference, and you will see the Spirit of God flow!

See also: Unlikely Heroes in The Bible: 5 Surprising People God Used

When the Lord restored the fortunes ofZion,
we were like those who dreamed.
Our mouths were filled with laughter,
our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”
The Lord has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.
- Psalm 126:1–3

Have you ever been locked in a place and unable to get out? Do you remember how you felt when someone finally set you free from that confinement? You hugged your rescuer and almost began jumping for joy because you had your freedom back, right?

The first three verses of Psalm 126 speak about the moment when God freed His people from captivity. They were finally free! What joy! They laughed without stopping, they sang cheerful songs, and even those watching them from afar recognized that God had done something great for His people. Everyone was incredibly happy!

Today I invite you to remember the freedom you have in Christ and celebrate it with joy, with songs and with laughter. Thanks to the work of Jesus in your life, you live in His light and have received the forgiveness of your sins. You no longer live under the weight of guilt or under the threat of eternal death. In Christ you are free, and you are already a participant in eternal life!

For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
- Colossians 1:13–14

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
- John 8:36

See also:

• Outline for a Powerful Deliverance Sermon: Jesus Sets Free and Heals the Soul
• Bible Verses About Joy