We hear about the joy of giving, and how it’s better to give than to receive. But Father has been showing me lately the joy of receiving – and specifically the receiving of one another’s gifts.
Ephesians 4:16 says that each child of God has specific gifts that release a supply of the Spirit needed to build-up Christ’s body and to do the work of the Kingdom. The question is: are we warmly receiving each other’s gifts? Too often we look at one another with natural eyes, with personal tastes, and make decisions based on preferences that determine whether or not we will receive the gift of God within another – their words, insights, helps, wisdom, knowledge, gift of healing, miracles, prophecy, etc. When the heavenly treasure within the earthen vessel is overlooked and not received, so is the supply it brings.
I believe that 2012 is a new season of knowing what our gifts are as well as recognizing the gift of God within one another. Abba Father wants us to see His light within our brothers and sisters instead of seeing our differences. It’s time for the divine family to know each other after the Spirit and not by the flesh. And rather than dismissing another’s supply, ignoring it, or overlooking it, we receive it, affirm it, and embrace what the Holy Spirit gives through them. Can you imagine how strong the body of Christ would become if we did that? How much Kingdom dominion would be released on earth as it is in heaven by such unity? And besides that, it’s just plain fun to receive a gift from God through someone!
You are a gift of God and within you is a light and supply that I need, as do others. My prayer is that you see yourself with heavenly eyes to know what He has put within you – and then give what He’s given you. If it’s helps, then help. If it’s a gift of healing – then minister healing! If it’s prophecy, then prophesy! If it’s teaching, then teach! And if it’s encouragement, then practice encouraging everyone you meet. There’s a whole world out there waiting for the gift and supply of the Spirit inside you.
J. Nicole
Your Identity in Christ Matters Today
