The Gift Of Faith

The Gift of Faith

A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. . . . The same Spirit gives great faith. 1 Corinthians 12:7, 9

PAUL WROTE OFTEN ABOUT SPIRITUAL GIFTS, sometimes in general terms and other times with specific lists that itemize certain gifts. As with so many spiritual attributes, every believer has a measure of these gifts. We are called to have wisdom, give generously, share our faith, and so on. But the Holy Spirit magnifies different gifts in different people. And one of those gifts is faith, the ability to believe God in extraordinary measure, to be filled with certain expectation of visions and callings being fulfilled. Some people seem to be able to believe more easily than others.

That’s not me, many people think, assuming they would know about their gift of faith if they already had it. But don’t be so sure. A gift from God is not a static, permanent, unyielding decision from above. Rarely does Scripture suggest that either you have it or you don’t. In fact, in just a few paragraphs, Paul urges the Corinthians to eagerly desire—literally “covet”—every spiritual gift (14:1), implying that we can get some we don’t already have. The fullness of his language there suggests that we should set our hearts on these gifts, be jealous for them (not against other believers but for the gifts themselves), and eagerly anticipate them in our own lives. Sure, there will be a few he has given that direct the course of our service in the body of Christ, but all are available in some measure for those who seek them. And as vital as faith is in the Kingdom of God, it should be one we desire in ever-increasing measure. We can grow in this gift. And as we steward it well, God pours out even more for our greater growth.

Make it a point to seek that gift daily. You can’t muster up faith on your own, but the more deeply and closely you fellowship with the Holy Spirit, the more his gifts fill you and empower you. Spend time with him and see how they grow. Ask for them. Receive the capacity to believe what he says. Count on him to give great faith.

A man cannot have faith without asking; neither can he ask it without faith.