Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (10) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
Romans 1:11-12

Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (10)
A spiritual treasure had been entrusted to the apostle Paul that he wished to share with the Christians in Rome. It did not come from his own abilities or knowledge. What he wished to impart to them he had himself received from the Lord as a "spiritual" of grace.
1 Peter 4:10 states: "As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." Paul obeyed this fundamental rule for Christian ministry devotedly. But it also meant that he was not to regard himself merely as the giver, although he was an apostle. The other Christians also, indeed each one of them, had received spiritual gifts from the Lord.
The spiritual growth and well-being of believers depends to a great extent on these spiritual gifts that complement one another and can prove really profitable for all. In their place, they establish and fortify mutually, whether in public meetings of Christians or in private spheres.
It is therefore in no way mere courtesy or diplomacy, but rather an honest expectation, when Paul says that he, too, wants to be encouraged "by the mutual faith of both you and me". Christian love and humility readily acknowledge all that God has entrusted to others or brought about by them.
(to be continued next Sunday)
Today's reading: Proverbs 25:15-28