Sharing Spiritual Gifts

The apostle Paul long held a dream of going to Rome. His desire was based on a very specific goal: "I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong" (Rom 1:11).

I used to see this as purely an apostolic happening, much like what Simon the Sorceror found in Acts 8:18, "...that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands...."

However, what I was missing was the mutuality of Paul's desire to impart a spiritual gift: "...that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith" (v. 12).  By the Spirit, Paul gave the gift that kept on giving.

While only the apostles could impart the gifts of the Holy Spirit by laying on of hands, the imparted gift could and was intended to be shared as a blessing to others - it was not something to be kept to oneself. 

Paul amplifies this point in Romans 12:6-8. "We have different gifts...If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy...if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully."

The point being that God gives each of his children gifts with the intention that we share them with others. God blesses us so that we might be a channel if his blessings, not a reservoir of personal enrichment. Whether it is wealth or skill or insight or whatever - He gave it to you so that you could share it with others. 

So, how's that going for you?  Just how are you using your time, energy and resources - for the Kingdom and God's glory or for your your personal best interest?  Jus' Askn.