Gifts of Healing

The apostle Paul says "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good" (1 Cor. 12:7). One of those "manifestations of the Spirit" is what Paul calls "gifts of healing" (see v. 9). It is interesting that the word "gift" is plural, for it would seem that God has many gifts of healing to distribute to the countless numbers of people who are sick in our world today. I am struck by this, and captured by the desire to become a vessel through whom "gifts of healing" may be given to the sick. I find myself growing more desirous to see - to actually see - real, supernatural, God-given gifts of healing given to those who are sick. After all, does it not say about Jesus that He "healed those who needed healing" (Lk. 9:11).

It seems that we are living in a day when it can no longer be "just the Word only." So often, it seems as if we preach more than we experience. Perhaps you may be feeling the same way I am, for my great desire is to reach out my hands and allow the Holy Spirit to distribute "gifts of healing" to all those who need a touch from God. I look at my hands and say, "Lord, can You use these hands of mine?" The answer seems to come back, "Yes, I am eager to do so, but you must be completely mine."