But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22–23 (KJV)
Message:
It is possible to be gifted and still need character growth. You can pray powerfully, teach the Word, or exercise the gift of prophecy while struggling to demonstrate patience, gentleness, or self-control. In 1 Corinthians 13:2, the Apostle Paul reminds us that even if we have the gift of prophecy and understand mysteries, without love, we are nothing.
Our spiritual gifts reveal how God can work through us, but the fruit of the Spirit reflects the character He is developing within us.
Imagine someone who delivers a prophetic message but uses it to intimidate or humiliate another person. The gift may be present, but the way it is exercised does not reflect Christ’s love. Spiritual gifts should be exercised with humility, wisdom, and love.
God is not asking you to pursue gifts at the expense of character. He invites you to walk in the Spirit and allow Him to transform your heart.
So, beyond asking, “Lord, use me,” pray, “Lord, change me.”
Midweek Challenge:
A Call to Self-Examination: What Is Your Life Producing?
Perhaps you are a preacher, worship leader, intercessor, prophet, teacher, or someone who serves faithfully behind the scenes. People come to you for prayer, counsel, encouragement, or direction.
Today, the Holy Spirit invites you to examine yourself more than your public ministry.
Ask yourself:
Am I growing in love?
Can I remain patient when things do not happen according to my expectations?
Do people experience kindness when they interact with me?
Am I willing to receive correction without becoming defensive?
Do I exercise my gifts with humility and self-control?
Does my conduct at home reflect the same faith I profess in public?
Am I becoming more like Jesus?
Prayer:
Father, help us to exercise every spiritual gift with love, wisdom, discernment, and accountability. May I never use what You have given me to manipulate, intimidate, or elevate myself above others. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.