In the course of our years of ministry, we have seen countless examples of the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in our staff, partners and fellow pastors. Many have the gift of a heavenly prayer language, teaching and preaching; some have the gifts of prophecy or healing, and so on.

Are you at a point in your walk with the Lord where the gifts are blossoming in your life? Praise the Lord! It is an exhilarating time and I rejoice with you.

But, beware, dear brother or sister, for Satan resents your ability to utilize God's gifts. He attacks his hardest when he fears the Spirit is moving most strongly in you. The trap the enemy loves to spring is that of wheedling you into developing false pride. Watch that you don't set yourself apart as superior to your brothers and sisters if you are blessed with a special gift. Don't "compare" your gift or its results with the ministry accomplished by another's gift. A "holier than thou" attitude toward your brother or sister in Christ is the devil's favorite prize!

Each of us is only as "holy" as the Spirit who uses us. God never intended one gift to be "superior" or more important, but rather to use each gift as a complement to the other that together we may fulfill His divine purpose.

Paul phrases it this way: "Now God gives us many kinds of special abilities, but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the source of them all...There are many ways in which God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work in and through all of us who are His" (1 Corinthians 12:4-6, TLB).

Thank you, dear Jesus, for the gifts of the Holy Spirit You have granted to me. Help me not to let false pride rob me of these precious gifts and to remember they are for the edification of the Body. Use me as You will in Your divine plan. I rest humbly, trusting You, and thanking You for using me in Your service. In Jesus' Name, Amen.