THE GIFT OF FAITH VS GENERAL FAITH

 Receive faith for a  supernatural intervention because of the anointing of God's favour upon you. 

Good -Life Devotional: THE GIFT OF FAITH VS GENERAL FAITH 

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

  The gift of faith, described in 1 Corinthians 12:9 as "special faith" or "wonder-working faith" given by the same Spirit, is distinct from the saving faith that comes by hearing the Word of God. It is a supernatural impartation—a "mustard seed" of God’s own faith—given instantly to a believer to trust Him for a miraculous event that is otherwise impossible. 

  This gift is characterized by bold, fearless proclamation and a "passive" reception of miracles, where God honors the believer's word as His own. 

KEY DIFFERENCES: GIFT OF FAITH vs. GENERAL FAITH

Source: General faith is grown through the Word (Romans 10:17); the gift of faith is bestowed sovereignly by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:11). 

Duration: General faith is a "fruit" (faithfulness) cultivated over time (Galatians 5:22); the gift of faith is a temporary, instantaneous impartation for a specific task. 

Action: It often acts as a catalyst for other power gifts, such as miracles and healings. 

Biblical Examples of the Gift of Faith

Peter Walking on Water (Matthew 14:28-33): Peter supernaturally walked on water when prompted by Jesus, demonstrating the gift of faith until fear caused him to revert to human faith. [1]

Elijah and the Drought (1 Kings 17:1): Elijah operated in the gift of faith when he declared, "There will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word." He knew God would back his prophetic word. 

Daniel in the Lions’ Den (Daniel 6:16-23): Daniel displayed the passive gift of faith, trusting God entirely for protection, allowing him to sleep among the lions. 

Peter Raising Dorcas (Acts 9:37-43): Peter was given a special impartation of faith to say, "Tabitha, arise!" to bring a dead woman back to life. 

Paul and Elymas (Acts 13:6-13): Paul was given special faith to declare that the magician Elymas would be blind for a season, resulting in immediate blindness. 

PROPHESYING ACCORDING TO FAITH

The Bible tells us to use our gifts, especially prophecy, in proportion to our faith. 

Romans 12:6 (NIV): "We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith." 

1 Corinthians 13:2: "...if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing." This highlights that even the gift of faith must be operated in love. 

ASKING FOR THE GIFT FOR MINISTRY

The gift of faith is highly beneficial for ministry, particularly for evangelists, missionaries, and church planters facing impossible situations. It can be requested of the Holy Spirit to bring about: 

PRESERVATION: Supernatural protection in danger (Daniel).

PROVISION: Supernatural sustenance (Elijah).

PROCLAMATION: Boldly declaring God's will to see it fulfilled.

TRANSPORTATION: Being moved by the Spirit. 

Other Supporting Bible Verses:

Mark 11:22-23: "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them."

Hebrews 11:33-34: Describes those who "through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions..." (a reference to the gift of faith).

2 Timothy 1:6: Paul instructs Timothy to "fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you." 

PRAYER : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and the gift of faith. 

+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com