Rationalizing the Bible

I used to think that the gifts of the Spirit in I Corinthians 12 (i.e.- healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, etc.) were graces only for the apostles or early church. I was a cessationist without even knowing what it meant. The reason I thought this way was because I did not witness or experience any of the supernatural gifts in my life or the churches I attended. Whenever I came across a passage in the New Testament that spoke of the supernatural I simply rationalized it away to justify the lack of power in my own life.

God's gifts and call are irrevocable (Rom. 11:29)

There is a great danger with interpreting Scripture to fit our personal beliefs and experiences. I have discovered that I either rationalize what the Bible teaches or conveniently ignore certain passages. Our beliefs should ultimately be founded on the Word of God and the truth should dictate our experience, not the other way around. For example, regarding spiritual gifts, we acknowledge and believe that Scripture recognizes its reality, availability, and necessity for all Christians. From that stand point, if we do not manifest any of the supernatural gifts, we don't negate the Word but rather pray and press in until these gifts are operating in our lives. This is the life of faith. What do you really believe?

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Hebrews 11:6