The Paradox of Spiritual Gifts
Verses: 1 Samuel 19:23-24
"Then he went there to Naioth in Ramah; and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went on and prophesied until he came to Naioth in Ramah. And he also stripped off his clothes and prophesied before Samuel in like manner, and lay down naked all that day and all that night. Therefore they say, "Is Saul also among the prophets?"
The story of Saul prophesying before Samuel is a remarkable and paradoxical instance of a person who was not walking in obedience to God's will, yet receiving the Holy Spirit and prophesying perfectly. It is astounding to think that Saul, who was trying to kill God's anointed, David, could still receive the gift of prophecy and exercise it with such precision. This raises a profound question: is it possible for a servant of God who disobeys God often to prophesy? The answer, as we see in Saul's case, is yes.
This phenomenon teaches us a valuable lesson. We should never measure our walk with God by our spiritual gifts. Just because someone possesses a gift, it does not necessarily mean that they are walking in obedience to God's will. Spiritual gifts are not a guarantee of spiritual maturity or obedience. We must not confuse the gift with the giver, or the vessel with the treasure it contains. The gift of prophecy, in this case, was not a reflection of Saul's spiritual state, but rather a demonstration of God's sovereignty and power.
Furthermore, this story highlights that gifts and spiritual unctions can sometimes be endowed upon us without our intervention or effort. Saul did not seek to prophesy or ask for the Holy Spirit to come upon him; it happened spontaneously. This shows that God is sovereign and can choose to bestow gifts upon whomever He pleases, regardless of their spiritual state. However, it is what we give to God deliberately that does matter as our spirituality. Our obedience, love, and devotion are what truly matter in our spiritual walk.
Finally, this story teaches us that it is when we begin to behave well towards God, being holy and obedient, that we truly become blessed. But this is not just a matter of obedience for its own sake; it is also a matter of gratitude. When we receive gifts from God, it is our responsibility to respond with gratitude and compliance. We must lead a holy life as a gratitude for receiving gifts, surrendering ourselves to God's will and purposes, and using our gifts to serve and glorify Him. This is the key to true blessing and spiritual growth.
As we reflect on this story, let us remember that spiritual gifts are not an end in themselves, but rather a means to an end. Let us not confuse the gift with the giver, or the vessel with the treasure it contains. Let us focus on cultivating a deep and obedient relationship with God, and let us respond to His gifts with gratitude and compliance.
Prayer:
Dear God, help us to understand the nature of spiritual gifts and our relationship with You. Help us to focus on cultivating a deep and obedient relationship with You, rather than relying solely on our spiritual gifts. Give us the wisdom to discern Your sovereignty and power, and to use our gifts to serve and glorify You. And help us to lead a holy life, surrendering ourselves to Your will and purposes, and using our gifts to bring glory and honor to Your name. Amen.