Thursday, 18 December 2014
But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. 1 Corinthians 12:18
“But now” is stated to contrast the examples given in the previous three verses. The many body parts don’t fight against one another, but rather they complement each other. And no part of the body reflects the whole. Instead each is designed to act in a particular way to benefit the whole, which is comprised of many. Therefore, “God has set the members.” The word for “set” is tithemi. It shows an intentional arrangement has taken place. Each member has been fashioned by God and then has been set in a particular place in order to benefit the whole.
This same word is used in John 15:16 as Jesus spoke to the apostles about His intentional choice and appointment of the apostles. There, translated as “appointed,” it says –
“You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.” John 15:16
The idea is the same here. God has done this for “the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.” The wisdom of God is on display in the selection of each person for their appointed gift, ministry, and activity. It would make no sense to place an ear where a foot belongs, and to have knee in the middle of the forehead would show a significant lack of judgment and right thinking. As God is the Creator and the Giver of gifts to His creatures, He knows the very best placement for them within the body. There are no errors and all things work in the body exactly as He determines.
Life application: As you evaluate your own position within the church family, know that you are exactly where the Lord wants you. He has a good plan and a purpose for you. So trust that His placement is perfect. Then, use your placement to the fullest extent you can in order to give glory to God.
Heavenly Father, I am absolutely certain that Your wisdom is infinite. I am also absolutely certain that because of Christ, I am Your child. With this in mind, and knowing that You only intend the very best for me, I am confident that You have me exactly where You want me and that You have a good plan and a purpose for me. And so I will trust this, follow You, and cling to You with all my heart and soul. I know that my life and destiny is secure in You. Thank You for this assurance. Amen.