Sunday, September 27, 2009

Devo # 29 The Motivational Gift of Prophecy

"So in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully." Romans 12:5-7

The list of gifts in this passage is described as the Motivational Gifts or Operational gifts. These gifts describe how each person operates in the body. Every believer does not have the same gift(s). It is important to understand the characteristics of each gift, even if you don't have it so that you appreciate your brothers and sisters who do. The root word of prophecy is propheteia, which means inspired speaking forth or making known. Prophecy is "the special ability to perceive and communicate truth and divinely inspired utterances in a timely and relevant manner, for understanding, correction, repentance or edification." This gift is very much needed in the body of Christ. The person with this gift is quick to discern any dishonest motives and is passionate about speaking truth and helping people come out of sin.

I do not have this gift but my wife does. She is a great blessing to me and the body of Christ.

Questions for Reflection: Do I truly appreciate the diversity of gifts that God has placed within the body of Christ? Will I honor the gift of prophecy even when they are speaking something that makes me uncomfortable or challenged?

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for placing the motivational gift of prophecy within the body of Christ. Please continue to use those with this gift to speak forth your truth and to guide us away from sin and error and back to truth and righteousness.

*For more information and source sites go to: http://www.cotr.org/assets/pdf/The_Motivational_Gift_Survey.pdf

http://www.netbiblestudy.com/00_cartimages/Perception.pdf
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