Note 4 at 1 Cor. 12:15: If we were given the choice of losing our eyesight, our hearing, or our ability to walk, most of us would have a hard time choosing. We'd probably say, "I don't want to do without any of them. They're all important."

We should feel the same way about every member of the body of Christ (see note 14 at 1 Cor. 12:27, p. 934) and the gift they have to contribute to the whole.

Paul is trying to get each person to appreciate the gift God has given him and to recognize that his part, even if he thinks it is insignificant, is vital. We should not be envious of others who have a more visible role. Every born-again Christian has a place in the body of Christ and a gift to contribute just like every part of our physical body.