Building Up the Body of Believers

July 10^th – July 20^th

Understanding Spiritual Gifts

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/14/21

Some of the gifts of the Spirit are also commands given to all believers. For example, every believer must tithe, and yet, giving is listed as a gift of the Spirit. We are called to be witnesses for Christ, and yet, evangelism is listed as a gift of the Spirit. There are certain people who have been given an extra measure of certain gifts to serve to build up the body of Christ.

As we discuss spiritual gifts, we must also be aware of counterfeit gifts. Jesus said in Matthew 24:24, “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”

Satan is a supernatural being with supernatural power, and he uses that power to deceive. In the last days, Satan and the Antichrist will try to deceive the elect. But, do not fear, the Lord will give you discernment to stand against this deceit.

If you don’t know your spiritual gifts, you may want to take a spiritual gifts test. Once you have discovered your gifts, ask the Lord to guide you in using them to build up the body. Using your gifts will fill you with great joy as you see the Lord work in ways you never anticipated.

Prayer: Father, guide me as I seek to discover my spiritual gifts. Help me also to be on guard against counterfeit gifts as the end draws near. May I hold fast to Your Word. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church” (1 Corinthians 14:12)