In Us, From Us, and Through Us

God gave Solomon wisdom, very great insight, and understanding as [vast] as the sand on the seashore. - 1 Kings 4:29

Solomon must have had at least a little intelligence before God gave him an abundance of it, because he was wise enough to ask for it! Yet, we also know from the biblical record that over time Solomon's commitment to God waned and he eventually began to worship false gods. Apparently, the gifts of "wisdom, very great insight, and vast understanding" couldn't keep Solomon from sin, and likewise our gifts won't keep us from it either.

At the moment of our spiritual birth, we receive gifts by the Spirit of God. These gifts empower us for the performance of the Lord's ministry and are evidence of His investment in His Kingdom. They do not keep us from sin, but they should serve as a reminder of our responsibility before our Lord, encouraging us toward greater sanctification (holiness and obedience).

In other words, may the investment of God in us produce lives of devotion and worship from us resulting in fruit through us!

About matters of the spirit: brothers, I do not want you to be unaware. - Apostle Paul