Desire the gifts of the Holy Spirit. That is Paul’s charge to us. The Spirit gives us the gifts and then we operate in them to build up the church. We should also desire the higher gifts of prophecy, teaching, and evangelism. These are gifts that provide leadership and instruction for the church.
1 Corinthians 12:27-31
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.
Build The Church
It is God who bestows the gifts. He has a perfect plan, not only for the church as a whole but also for each local congregation. After Paul just told us that we are one body and all gifts are needed he then gives us a list of priorities when it comes to gifts. Just a like a body where some parts are more necessary than others, so it is with gifts. The first priority is apostles and prophets. These gifts are foundational to the building of the church. Teaching and hearing from God are essential to the maturity of the body of Christ and the individual believer. No one person has all the gifts, so it is necessary for the church to come together and use their gifts. The word translated higher in 1 Corinthians 12:31 means “greater.” Some spiritual gifts are more significant than others, and it is proper for the believer to desire the gifts.
Be an Open Vessel
Desire for God to use His gifts in you. Not for any attention but for the honor of being used by Him. The church and the world for that matter need more people to step up and be apostles (messengers) and prophets. They need to hear the Gospel, and they need to hear that it can change their life dramatically. Ask God to bestow on you the gifts of His Holy Spirit. Desire the gifts.