The Earnest Heart: Seeking Spiritual Gifts with Discernment

How often do we find ourselves wrestling with the desire for a particular blessing, a specific manifestation of the Spirit? We study the accounts of the early Saints, marveling at their prophetic utterances, healings, and gifts of tongues. We read of the Restoration itself, a cascade of divine power poured out upon a humble prophet. And then, we turn inward, pleading for a similar experience, a personal witness of such profound grace.

The temptation, brethren and sisters, is to view the pursuit of spiritual gifts as a matter of personal acquisition, a checklist of experiences to be attained. But the Apostle Paul, in his wisdom, cautions against such a perspective. While it is indeed okay, as the video rightly points out, to desire spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 14:1), that desire must be rooted in a heart that seeks the advancement of Zion, not the elevation of self.

The video reminds us of the crucial distinction: the ultimate decision rests with God. We can pray, we can strive, we can diligently seek, but the granting of these gifts is a matter of divine dispensation. This is a principle echoed throughout the scriptures. Remember the parable of the unjust steward (Luke 16:19-31)? Even Lazarus, in his suffering, received comfort, while the rich man, in his abundance, was denied. God’s timing and wisdom surpass our own, and His gifts are bestowed according to His purposes.

Consider the context of 1 Corinthians 14:12: “Verily I say unto you, that if any man among you shall desire to prophesy, let one watch unto him; And if there be any revelation, let the same be revealed by the power of the Holy Ghost, unto him that prophesieth, that the church may be edified.” The emphasis isn’t on the individual's prophetic ability, but on the edification of the church. The gift is meant to build up, to strengthen, to unify.

This is a crucial point in an age increasingly characterized by individualistic spirituality. The pursuit of spiritual gifts must not become a competition for recognition or a source of pride. As the video eloquently states, avoiding the trap of ego is paramount. The Brethren have consistently warned against seeking signs and wonders for personal gratification. Such a posture invites spiritual delusion and ultimately hinders true progression.

Think on the words of President Brigham Young: “It is not the gift that is so great, but the use that is made of it.” A powerful gift wielded for selfish purposes is a wasted blessing, a potential curse. True discipleship demands that we steward our gifts—whatever they may be—for the benefit of others, for the furtherance of the gospel.

Let us examine our own hearts, brethren and sisters. Are we pursuing spiritual gifts with the right motive? Are we willing to submit to the will of the Lord, even if He does not grant us the specific gift we desire? Let humility be our guide, and let the edification of the body of Christ be our constant aim. The pursuit of spiritual gifts is a sacred endeavor, worthy of our earnest effort, but always tempered by faith, obedience, and a profound reverence for the divine order.

May we each strive to emulate the Saints of old, those who sought the blessings of the Restoration not for personal glory, but for the building up of Zion.