The Importance of Gifts Part IV
Today we will be discussing two gifts of the spirit that are often misunderstood. “9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers,” 1 Corinthians 12:9-10a. It is not by accident that the gift of healing and the gift of miracles are listed after the gift of faith. In fact, these three gifts all work together. However, before we discuss how they work together, let us understand more about what scripture says regarding healing and miracles.
As with our posts on the previous gifts, we are going to look at the Biblical definition behind these two gifts. The definition for healing has not changed in today’s society. It means “to cure (literally or figuratively), to make whole” G2390, which is the same definition anyone would give if asked to define healing. Our next gift is miracles which is defined as “force ( literally or figuratively); specifically miraculous power” G1411. With such simple meanings, you may be wondering how these two gifts are often misunderstood. The answer for that comes from individuals forgetting who gives the gifts. Remember, “All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.” 1 Corinthians 12:11.
Many individuals forget that these are gifts that are bestowed by God to be used as He sees fit. They are not given to us so that we may increase our own “power or importance”. These gifts are not done on our own might or whims but the will of God. Which is why they work together with the gift of faith. When faced with an impossible task that would require the gift of healing and/or gift of miracles, it is through faith in God and that He will provide will an answer be given. No individual can force the gift of healing or miracles. It can only come through God and will be done to His will.
For examples of how the gifts on healing and miracles work together with the gift of faith look at Acts 14:8-10. “8 In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed 10 and called out, “Stand up on your feet!” At that, the man jumped up and began to walk.” The man here had the faith that God would provide an answer to his lameness, this was the reason that Paul was able to heal him. While it benefited the man, it was done to show the glory of God and what can be done when we have faith in His word and promises.
Seek the truth and encourage one another,
Alex