Scripture
Romans 12:6
Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith…
Romans 12:8
He who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
Thought for Today
The spiritual gift of exhortation is a priceless treasure from God. People with this gift have the ability to go far beyond cheering the mood of others. They are anointed to actually help them see their circumstances from a different perspective. The gift of exhortation allows the Holy Spirit to motivate people to become more positive and to persevere. This prompts the recipient to look to Christ in their lives rather than their situation.
Another word for exhort is encouragement, which means to “instill courage.” A person gifted with exhortation is used by God to revitalize
another so that they become brave and are released from the spirit of fear. A word of inspiration is sometimes all that is needed to turn around a person’s whole life. Speaking kind words of reassurance to someone helps them feel confident to accept and walk in their own spiritual and/or natural gifts.
God the Father knows that humans need a spiritual boost from others to inspire them to continue their journey. Likewise, everyone has received the benefit of a sincere compliment or praise, even people that have the gift of encouragement. Exhortation is a gift that costs nothing but is priceless in value. It has no limits with regard to age, race, religion, or language. Encouragement can be given and received almost anywhere, including:
- Home
- Church
- Workplace
- Community
Exhortation takes on a variety of forms depending on the people and situation involved. It is manifested in acts of kindness and gifts. Reading a scripture, sharing an uplifting song, and taking time in prayer are examples of exhortation. Seemingly small things like a listening ear or a smile can raise high the spirit of a person who is feeling lowly. A Spirit-given gift of exhortation is always rooted in love.
Keep in mind that encouraging yourself is as vital (if not more) than exhorting others. It is said that nothing can be poured from an empty vessel. You fill your spirit with exhortation when you pray your heart to God. You also do so by reading inspiring scriptures and declaring them over yourself. You are uplifted when you rebuke negative thoughts and speech. Finding joy in something or someone the Lord has given you brightens your day.
Encouraging, comforting, and supporting others reveals the gospel of Jesus in you. The Holy Spirit gives resources and gifts for you to give away to someone else. Still, He is gracious to allow you to get just as much as you give when you elevate others.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
It’s Time to Pray
God, we give praise to You for the honor of using our spiritual gifts to uphold someone else. When we are encouraged by another, remind us to return kindness to others. We bless You in the name of Jesus. Amen
