There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.--1 Corinthians 12:4-7In the 34th chapter of Numbers, we learn that God set the boundaries for the land that each tribe inherited: "When you come into the land of Canaan, which I am giving you as your special possession, these will be the boundaries" (Numbers 34:2). Some land faced the wilderness (Numbers 34:3), and some of it was beside the Mediterranean Sea (Numbers 34:6). Some tribes received property in the mountains (Numbers 34:7). The tribes accepted and enjoyed the land that God gave to them.
God used human leaders to help define the boundaries of where each tribe would reside. In a similar fashion, God uses human leaders in the church to help define the boundaries of where each Christian will serve:
Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.--Ephesians 4:11-12
As you read Numbers 34 this week, note how the tribes accepted their assignments without complaint. What about you? Have you accepted your gift from God without complaining or coveting what others possess?
When tempted to fuss about what God has assigned to you, it is important to remember that "God has put each part just where he wants it" (1 Corinthians 12:18).
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