Why God Raises Up

The Bible says it is the Holy Spirit who gives us various gifts, talents and offices within the body of Christ.

“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-7)

God doesn’t give us His gifts, talents, and ministries to exalt ourselves; rather He gives them “for the profit of all.” That is, they are given to help out His church.

This being the case let’s not think we’re all that plus a bag of chips, because of what God has so gracious bestowed. The Apostle Paul said, “Through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.” (Romans 12:3)

This was something the greatest king of Israel knew as reality in his life. King David realized it was God who established him, but not for his sake, or to exalt Him above others; rather David realized the Lord established Him and made his kingdom great for the sake of His (the Lord’s) people.

“So David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel, for his kingdom was highly exalted for the sake of His people Israel.” (1 Chronicles 14:2)

So when God gives us a ministry, let’s remember that He’s not giving us that ministry, gift, or talent for our sake, or to exalt us; rather He’s giving it to us because He wants us to use it for the sake of His kingdom, for the sake of His people.

And so we need to humble ourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift us up for His kingdom’s sake, James 4:10.