Manifestations of Spiritual Gifts
I have recently been involved in a "study" (it seemed more a debate and I withdrew for the moment) regarding the gifts/sign-gifts of the Apostles and how they may or may not be valid today. Since withdrawing from that study, I have found much support in scripture to the validity of "miracles" today. Just this morning in 1 Cor where Paul discussed his "thorn" spoke of God's will to heal or not. My understanding has been that healing, along with other signs and gifts is still valid today, but, as with anything of God, is according to his will, and not only of our faith. Paul had faith, to the degree that God took him to the third heaven. Some have tried to pursuade me that all signs, miracles, etc., ended with the apostles.
My request to any who read this is, how are we to respond to those who have been taught and attempt to adhere to these teachings? I say attempt because of the double-speak I experienced, while putting forth scripture to validate that God can, will, and does desire to give healing (other than spiritual via salvation) to some for the purpose of demonstrating his power to the end of the age. I know He has healed today because He has healed or "delivered" me from many affictions, as well as others who have testified. It is on that basis that I stand firm.
Hi Maria
I agree with you 100 percent. I go to Jesus for all things and I am always thankful for everything. When I am having one of my bad days, that's when I hang on real tight to Jesus. And I found that my relationship with God the Father and God the Son is alot stronger because of my afflictions. When I find my strength failing, that is when my strength in Christ is stronger. I find solace in 2 Corinthians 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, than am I strong. He gives me his strength each and every day, that is how I go on. When I feel like giving up that is when I find Christ working through me, giving me the encouragement to do even just a little. Without Christ I can do nothing, when I give him my days, I find the strength to finish the tasks before me. I can say this truly cuz tonight is not one of my good nights. I am struggling to breathe, every breath I take is agony. I am not saying this for pity--I don't believe in pity parties. But to give God the Glory that I can get through this and He is working all things for good. Either in this life or my next journey with Him in the next. And to be honest--I am looking forward to my journey going home.
God Bless,
Tobie