Body Parts

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20corinthians%2012-14&version=NIV

"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." - 1 Corinthians 12:27

I am so glad that you are a part of the body of Christ, because you bring something to the body that I do not and cannot. You are integral part, and the body of Christ does not function the way it should without you and what you bring to it. Indeed, God has gift each one with a gift that is essential to the community - the body - of which they are a part. Some of you are part of the same body that I am, and I thank God for you because I've seen your giftedness and the difference that you make. Others are a part of another body, and I thank God that he has placed you there to make that body complete in a way that no other member can. I hope that you know and understand how essential you are to the body of Christ and the Kingdom of God. This is one of the key truths in our passage today (focusing on Ch. 12)- we have all been given Spiritual gifts to be used for the common good of the body or community of believers (vs. 7-8).

But, we also must know that our gifts aren't the same - they won't be because a body with lots of arms and no legs is worthless. God has given you a unique gift - one that should be seen as equally important as another's gift (vs.18). This diversity of gifts is intended to accomplish God's purpose in his body. I love what my study Bible stays - that God's method employs diversity to create unity. Such a wise design that only our creative, amazing God could create. So know today that if your giftedness puts you behind the scenes in the church, I thank God for your giftedness because the church cannot function without you - you are indespensable. I don't want to have to try to be in my role if I don't have you standing with me in yours. So be satisfied with your gift - it was especially chosen for you by the Holy Spirit (vs. 11).

Lastly, use your gift for the glory of God and love the body as you use it (Ch. 13). Without love, your gift is serves little purpose. Without love, we lose sight of why we have our gifts - they become a point of pride or jealousy. Without love, we cannot function as the body of Christ because love is exactly what God is - he has communicated this love to us, and commands us to love one another. With love and with everyone using their gifts according to the way the Holy Spirit has given to them, the body of Christ is a strong body - able to be Christ on earth to one another and to others. Accept your gift, use your gift, love through your gift and watch what God will do through you.

Precious friends, I pray that each of you would desire to be an active part of the body - for you are designed by God for a specific purpose and role. I pray you would know the importance of that role and feel the pleasure of using your gift for the glory of God.

Blessings to you!

Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels