Empowerment Gifts: The 10 Cultures
The Empowerment Gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 align closely with qualities of great organizational culture, including families or churches. When the Holy Spirit is at work, He creates an environment where these qualities flourish:
Culture of Wisdom
The gift of wisdom enables individuals to make decisions and offer guidance that aligns with God’s purposes. A culture of wisdom is marked by thoughtful leadership, ethical decision-making, and a deep understanding of God’s ways. It encourages others to seek God’s direction in their work and relationships.
“To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom.” (1 Corinthians 12:8)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
Culture of Knowledge
The gift of knowledge brings insight into truth that could not otherwise be known. A culture of knowledge fosters curiosity, learning, and the pursuit of truth, encouraging believers and non-believers to explore the deeper meaning of life and work.
“To another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:8)
“Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands.” (Psalm 119:66)
Culture of Faith
The gift of faith inspires trust in God’s provision and power. A culture of faith creates an atmosphere of confidence, hope, and resilience, enabling teams and communities to take bold steps in challenging circumstances.
“To another faith by the same Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:9)
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1)
Culture of Healing
The gift of healing restores physical, emotional, and spiritual brokenness. A culture of healing promotes care, compassion, and restoration, making the workplace or community a place where people feel safe and supported.
“To another gifts of healing by that one Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:9)
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)
Culture of Miracles
The gift of miracles demonstrates God’s power in extraordinary ways. A culture of miracles fosters awe and reverence, reminding people of God’s active presence and ability to do the impossible.
“To another miraculous powers.” (1 Corinthians 12:10)
“Jesus replied, ‘What is impossible with man is possible with God.’” (Luke 18:27)
Culture of Prophecy
The gift of prophecy provides encouragement, exhortation, and guidance. A culture of prophecy values communication, clarity, and truth, creating an environment where people feel heard and inspired.
“To another prophecy.” (1 Corinthians 12:10)
“Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.” (1 Corinthians 14:1)
Culture of Discernment
The gift of discernment helps distinguish between spirits and motives. A culture of discernment cultivates integrity, transparency, and wise decision-making, ensuring that individuals and organizations remain aligned with godly principles.
“To another distinguishing between spirits.” (1 Corinthians 12:10)
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” (1 John 4:1)
Culture of Encouragement
The gift traditionally understood as tongues can represent a culture of encouragement, where individuals build themselves and others up through words, actions, and attitudes. This culture emphasizes uplifting one another, fostering positivity, and creating an environment where people feel motivated and supported.
“To another speaking in different kinds of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:10)
“But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort.” (1 Corinthians 14:3)
Culture of Clarity
Interpreting tongues can be reframed as fostering a culture of clarity where communication is transparent, understandable, and inclusive. This culture bridges gaps in understanding, ensuring that everyone in the organization or community can align with shared goals and values. It emphasizes making complex ideas accessible and promoting mutual understanding.
“And to still another the interpretation of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:10)
“If the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?” (1 Corinthians 14:8)
Culture of Fruit
When the Holy Spirit is present in an organization's culture, His presence is evident through the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control should shape workplace behavior, values, and interactions. Each fruit contributes to a thriving, Spirit-led environment where people flourish in their strengths and vulnerabilities.
Here’s how each fruit might manifest in an organizational culture:
Love: A culture of love ensures that employees genuinely care for one another, fostering collaboration, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging.
Joy: Joy creates a workplace where people are glad to be with one another in both strength and weakness. It brings energy, optimism, and resilience to teams.
Peace: A peaceful culture resolves conflicts with grace, promotes harmony, and reduces stress through clear communication and unity.
Patience: Patience allows for understanding and tolerance when mistakes are made or when growth takes time, building a supportive and forgiving environment.
Kindness: Kindness encourages compassion, generosity, and proactive efforts to meet the needs of others, creating a caring workplace.
Goodness: Goodness ensures ethical practices, integrity, and a commitment to doing what is right for both employees and stakeholders.
Faithfulness: Faithfulness builds trust and reliability, where employees and leaders are committed to their roles and to one another.
Gentleness: Gentleness fosters humility and a soft approach in handling sensitive issues, creating a safe space for vulnerability.
Self-Control: Self-control ensures discipline, emotional regulation, and the ability to make wise decisions under pressure, benefiting the entire organization.
Purchase the Application Manual to Learn:
The importance of joy in the 10 cultures.
Praying for workplace transformation using the Empowerment Gifts.