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Blessed People Bless People (Romans 12:6-8)
Romans 12:6-13, “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; 7 or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness”. (NKJV)
In Paul’s letter to the Romans he notes several “gifts” possessed by the Christians he expected them to use. We might divide these “gifts” into two basic categories. There were gifts that required speaking: “prophecy, teaching, exhortation, leading” (12:6-8). Yet, there were gifts we could categorize as serving gifts: “ministry, giving, showing mercy.”
Not every person has the same gifts. Some are more comfortable and better equipped in speaking roles. Others may be better qualified and capable of serving. Some are gifted in mind and mouth, others in heart and hands. Martha and Mary serve as a valuable contrast of this dynamic (Luke 10:38-42). When Jesus visited Martha’s home, it was Mary who was more comfortable speaking and studying the Word with Jesus. Martha was more focused on the physical aspects of Jesus’ visit—cooking, serving, and preparing a meal. Both had their roles and both roles may have been indicative of their personal gifts.
Whatever our gifts may be, God’s Word expects us to use those gifts within His church. For some, this may mean serving in “ministry.” This word “ministry” found in Romans 12:7 comes from the same Greek root as the word “deacon” in Scripture. The areas of ministry can be multi- faceted. In Acts 6, the deacons served by helping ensure all of the church’s widows were fed. “Ministry” is looking to the needs of others and supplying those needs when possible. Every church needs people willing to serve. Some members need transportation. Visitors need greeted. Communion needs prepared. The building needs cleaned. Yards may need mowed. Shut-ins could use a helping hand. Minister.
Some people are gifted financially. God calls them to liberally give. Some may barely be able to scrape two pennies together. However, if we are blessed with financial resources God expects us to put those resources to good use. There will always be needs both local and abroad and the wealthy Christian must look to help others.
Some are gifted at showing mercy towards others. Every church has people who are enduring mental, spiritual, or physical pain. A person who is tender-hearted and compassionate towards those enduring such pain is a vital resource in the church. One who is quick to pay attention to the difficulties of others disperses a valuable gift.
How has the Lord gifted you? Do you have the time and energy to serve? Do you have the financial resources to give? Do you have the compassion to reach out to the troubled in mercy? Blessed people bless people.
