October 21, 2025 - 1 Corinthians 12-16

Varieties of gifts, the same Spirit. One body many parts. Gifts given to all. Love. Faith, hope, and love. All this is about the church and for the church. And Paul tops it off with a reminder about the gospel and the resurrection. And, finally, instructions to stand firm and, also, warm greetings to the Corinthians. Reading these chapters, one is just reminded of how wise and good God is and how abundant are his provisions for his people. He has given us all we need both for this life and the next. The sons of Korah got it right.

For the LORD God is a sun and shield;

the LORD bestows favor and honor.

No good thing does he withhold

from those who walk uprightly.

O LORD of hosts,

blessed is the one who trusts in you! (Psalm 84:11-12)

A sov'reign Protector I have,

unseen, yet forever at hand,

unchangeably faithful to save,

almighty to rule and command.

He smiles, and my comforts abound;

His grace as the dew shall descend;

and walls of salvation surround

the soul He delights to defend.

Inspirer and hearer of pray'r,

Thou Shepherd and Guardian of Thine,

my all to Thy covenant care

I sleeping and waking resign. –Augustus Toplady (19th century)