A Genuine Gift

So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. (1 Thessalonians 2:8)

Let me shock you at this point. A naturally bright person can carry on religious activity without a special gift from God.

Filling church pulpits every week are some who are using only natural abilities and special training. Some are known as Bible expositors, for it is possible to read and study commentaries and then repeat what has been learned about the Scriptures. Yes, it may shock you, but it is true that anyone able to talk fluently can learn to use religious phrases and can become recognized as a preacher.

But if any person is determined to preach so that his work and ministry will abide in the day of the judgment fire, then he must preach, teach and exhort with the kind of love and concern that comes only through a genuine gift of the Holy Spirit–something beyond his own capabilities. TRA021-022.

"Lord, grant me that gift as I wait before You again this morning. I certainly want to preach with eternal benefit, and recognize that only in the power–and love–of the Holy Spirit will that happen. Amen."

(A.W. Tozer. Tozer on Christian Leadership, May 4)