Spiritual Gifts to Be Shared
Paul’s love for his brothers in Rome impelled him to write: “I am longing to see you, that I may impart some spiritual gift [kha′ri•sma] to you in order for you to be made firm; or, rather, that there may be an interchange of encouragement among you, by each one through the other’s faith, both yours and mine.” (Romans 1:11, 12) Paul viewed our ability to fortify others’ faith by our speaking to them as a spiritual gift. The interchange of such spiritual gifts would result in a shoring up of faith and in mutual encouragement.
And this is certainly needed. In this wicked system in which we live, we all face stress in one way or another. A regular interchange of encouragement, however, can help us to persevere. The idea of interchange—both giving and receiving—is important to maintaining spiritual strength. True, we all need heartening from time to time, but we can all build one another up as well.
If we are alert to notice fellow believers who are downhearted, we may be ‘able to comfort those in any sort of tribulation with the comfort with which we ourselves are being comforted by God.’ (2 Corinthians 1:3-5) The Greek word for comfort (pa•ra′kle•sis) literally means “a calling to one’s side.” If, when needed, we are alongside to offer a helping hand to our brother or sister, doubtless we ourselves will receive the same loving support when we are in need.—Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10; compare Acts 9:36-41.
Of great benefit also are the loving shepherding visits of the elders. Though there are occasions when visits are made to give Scriptural counsel on a matter requiring attention, most shepherding visits are occasions for encouragement, a ‘comforting of hearts.’ (Colossians 2:2) When overseers make such faith–strengthening visits, they are really imparting a spiritual gift. Like Paul, they will find this unique form of giving rewarding, and they will develop a “longing” for their brothers.—Romans 1:11.
This was true in the case of an elder in Spain, who relates the following experience: “Ricardo, an 11-year-old boy, seemed to express little interest in the meetings and the congregation in general. So I asked Ricardo’s parents for permission to visit their son, to which they readily agreed. They lived in the mountains about one hour’s drive from my home. Ricardo was evidently pleased to see the interest I took in him, and he responded right away. He soon became an unbaptized publisher and an energetic member of the congregation. His reserved nature was replaced by a happier more outgoing personality. Several in the congregation asked: ‘What’s happened to Ricardo?’ They seemed to notice him for the first time. Reflecting on that crucial shepherding visit, I feel that I have gained more than Ricardo. When he enters the Kingdom Hall, his face beams, and he comes rushing over to greet me. It has been a joy to see his spiritual progress.”
Doubtless, shepherding visits, such as this one, are richly blessed. Such visits are in line with Jesus’ plea: “Shepherd my little sheep.” (John 21:16) Of course, elders are not the only ones who can impart such spiritual gifts. Everyone in the congregation can incite others to love and fine works. (Hebrews 10:23, 24) Just as climbers who are scaling a mountain are roped together, so we are joined together by spiritual bonds. Inevitably, what we do and say affects others. A cutting remark or harsh criticism can fray the bonds that unite us. (Ephesians 4:29; James 3:8) On the other hand, choice words of encouragement and loving assistance can help our brothers surmount their difficulties. In this way we will be sharing spiritual gifts of lasting value.—Proverbs 12:25.
Reflecting God’s Glory in a Fuller Measure
It is clear that every Christian has a measure of charisma. We have been granted the priceless hope of everlasting life. We also have spiritual gifts that we can share with one another. And we can strive to inspire or motivate others toward right ends. Some have additional gifts in the form of service privileges. All these gifts are proof of God’s undeserved kindness. And since any gift that we might have is something we have received from God, we certainly have no reason to boast.—1 Corinthians 4:7.
As Christians, we do well to ask ourselves, ‘Will I use any degree of charisma that I might have to bring glory to Jehovah, the Giver of “every good gift and every perfect present”? (James 1:17) Will I imitate Jesus and minister to others according to my abilities and circumstances?’
The apostle Peter sums up our responsibility in this regard: “In proportion as each one has received a gift [kha′ri•sma], use it in ministering to one another as fine stewards of God’s undeserved kindness expressed in various ways. If anyone speaks, let him speak as it were the sacred pronouncements of God; if anyone ministers, let him minister as dependent on the strength that God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”—1 Peter 4:10, 11.
[Footnote]
A total of 913 people died, including Jim Jones himself.
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