by Pastor Rich Carlson

I like this piece of Scripture. It reminds me of unity and diversity, of commonality and uniqueness, of corporateness and individuality. This passage provides an encouraging and supportive understanding of our personal value and the value of everyone around us. Here’s what I was reminded of in chapter 12 of Paul’s first letter to the believers in Corinth:
1. The body is a unit with many parts, but it’s still only one body (12:12, 20)
2. We all function by one and the same Spirit (12:13)
3. All parts are not equal, but all parts are necessary for optimal performance (12:22)

Paul gives three illustrations to describe three different attitudes about the parts of the body:
1. Paul reminds us that just because a foot is not a hand it does not follow that it has no value (12:15). I need to believe that I’m valuable and God can use me.
2. If someone else finds my "part of the body" not very valuable, Paul reminds us that “the eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you’” (12:21).  I have to believe that no matter what others might think, God sees value in me and needs me to complete His whole body.
3. Paul reminds us that God has “given greater honor to the parts that lack it” (12:24). I have to believe that even if I’m not the star performer, I am a crucial element in making up His body.

The above insights lead Paul to these conclusions (12: 25):
1. "there should be no division in the body," and
2. "I should have equal concern for everyone else.”

First I make the application to myself, realizing my worth and value to God. Then I do the same to everyone around me, believing they are of equal value in God’s eyes. When I place positive value on others, the way I think of and treat them changes. As I see others as important parts of the body of Christ it does wonders in my relationships with them. I recommend it to you.

Rich Carlson is campus chaplain at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. “God Is Faithful” is adapted from the email devotionals he writes regularly for the Union College family. Rich enjoys filling his life with God, his family, and especially his five grandchildren.