1 Corinthians 14:12

Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual [gifts], [let it be] for the edification of the church [that] you seek to excel.

It would do us well as Christians to remember always that our life is about pouring out to others. While our faith is personal it is never private (salt and light), and all we do reflects our belief in the nature of our God and Savior.

He gave a clear command as He washed the feet of His  disciples, that as they saw Him do, they must also do. When we follow this we agree that He came not to be served but to serve and as His disciples we are to strive to be like Him. When we do not, we represent a very different god then the one revealed to us in His Son.

Jesus taught us,  “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. (John 12:24). He goes on to say that those who love their life in this world will lose it, but those who recognize that the life in this world is not the one  to strive after will keep their life for eternity.

All of the life of Christ is about laying it out for others. As His disciples we are called to do no less. Even to desire spiritual gifts— not for the gifts but for the giving to others. Let us seek to build one another up in the church—oh no, not bolstering our self-esteem—that leads to destruction! To edify (build one another up) is to establish a firm, well-built home, which requires a firm foundation. That firm foundation can only be established in the truth of God’s Word.  Let us desire whatever God wants to give us to help one another glorify God and walk through this world unscathed, unharmed, and reach the gates of heaven.