For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.
Romans 1:11-12 ESV
Paul is writing to a church he has yet to visit. He knows some of the people there, but for most he is a notorious stranger. He has a deep desire to see them in person so he can share with them “some spiritual gift.” The use of the word “some” seems to indicate that he’s not sure what that gift might be, but he is confident that the Spirit will give him something, and it will cause them to be stronger. Paul had confidence, not in himself, but in the gifts of God in him.
The word “gift” means some recognizable manifestation of grace, in this case, something freely given from the Spirit through him. In this letter Paul uses the word to refer to salvation (5:15-16; 6:23), to Israel’s special place in the covenant (11:29), and to a number of grace-given abilities for use in service of others (12:6).” In 1 Corinthians 12, he uses it to refer to obvious manifestations of the Spirit in ministry. We can’t tell which of these things Paul may have had in mind. He did know that God would impart something to them through him, and that the result would be strength. He also knew that in sharing his gifts with them he would be encouraged as well. There would be a mutuality of blessing.
As we gather with the saints today, let’s go expecting. First, expect that God will use you to strengthen someone else by the Spirit in you. Then, expect the interaction with other believers to encourage you as well. Let today be a day of mutual impartation and encouragement. It’s not you, it’s the Spirit of God through you. Expect it. That’s how this thing works.
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