In 1 Corinthians 12–13, Paul speaks to the beauty and diversity of spiritual gifts but shifts focus to what truly matters. While gifts like prophecy, teaching, and leadership are important for building up the church, Paul reminds us they are temporary. In chapter 13, he highlights the things that last forever: faith, hope, and love, with love being the greatest of all.

Paul’s words challenge our perspective on what we should desire most. It’s natural to long for visible gifts that gain recognition or seem to make the biggest impact. Yet Paul calls these gifts “partial” and “incomplete” compared to what is eternal (1 Corinthians 13:9–10). Teaching will one day no longer be needed when we know God fully. Prophecy and tongues will cease when the perfect kingdom comes. But faith, hope, and love endure because they are rooted in God’s eternal nature.

This doesn’t diminish the value of spiritual gifts but reorients our priorities. Gifts are tools for serving others here and now, but faith, hope, and love prepare us for eternity. Faith connects us to God, hope sustains us through trials, and love reflects God’s character and binds His people together. Paul writes, “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8) because it is the very essence of God Himself (1 John 4:8).

What does this mean for us today? While we should seek to develop and use the gifts God gives, we must also remember that they are a means to an end, not the end itself. Are we as eager to grow in love, to deepen our faith, or to anchor our lives in the hope of Christ’s return? These are the things that will not fade away, even when all else does.

Take a moment to reflect: Are your desires shaped more by what seems impressive or by what will last forever? True greatness in God’s kingdom isn’t measured by visible gifts but by the unseen work of faith, hope, and love in our hearts and lives.