The Body of Christ and faith

 "For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness."

Romans 12:4-8

 

 

 

 There is no competition or comparisons necessary when measuring faith and its accompanying works within believers, for the measure of faith given is from above, and the purposes for the vessels we become are also divinely originated. Whether it be the measure of wisdom, prophecy, ministry or teaching, each one in the Body of Christ plays a finely orchestrated song that in symphony will bring joy to the heart of our Father.

  Is not the calling of our Sovereign Father to His Son an act of grace on His part? Is not the fact that we have faith in what others cannot ever see a gift in itself? I am realizing more and more that my greatest works in Christ Jesus will only be parallel to the measure of faith and grace I have been given. Is it any wonder why the Bible's greatest self-proclaimed sinner, Paul, was utilized by God in such an way that it has shaped our own faith and walk? For as the scripture above states: "Having then different gifts according to the grace that is given us..." Does this mean then that the greater our sins the higher our calling? Certainly not, but in reasoning on Biblical accounts and my own experiences, to those whom have been forgiven much...these love much in return. 

  We have been shown such mercy and compassion, patience and deliverance in this life, that it  increases the measure of faith that we have had since coming into our Lord because of His awesome qualities. The more we get to know Him, our love and faith abound. We remain and shall always be a clay vessel unworthy of the hands that have shaped us into being. Knowing this, today I reflect on the gift of God's mercy in my life by instilling a saving and growing faith within me. It keeps me from being who I was, and striving always to be who I am in His name and for His kingdom to come; for His will to be done.