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he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Spiritual gifts are to be used with joy in the body of Christ.<\/p>\n The word translated \u201cexhortation<\/span>\u201d is parakalon<\/em><\/span>, which is a present participle meaning \u201cassisting, comforting, challenging, or encouraging.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGives<\/span>\u201d is from metadid\u014dmi<\/em><\/span>, meaning \u201cto give to others or to share.\u201d This gift is to be performed \u201cwith liberality<\/span>\u201d which comes from the Greek word haplot\u0113s<\/em><\/span>, meaning \u201cwith singleness, with simplicity, or without any ulterior motives.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLeads<\/span>\u201d is from proist\u0113mi<\/em><\/span>, which literally means, \u201cthe one who stands before.\u201d This is a person who is in charge, and we are told that this gift is done, \u201cen spoude<\/em><\/span>.\u201d This literally means \u201cwith speed\u201d but by implication it means \u201cwith diligence.\u201d<\/p>\n Finally, Paul mentions ho eleon,<\/em><\/span> meaning \u201cthe one having compassion or mercy\u201d It involves not only feeling compassionate for those in circumstances brought about by their own sin, but actively assisting them in overcoming their sin and circumstances. This gift is different from \u201chelps\u201d in that it is extended to those who deserve what they are suffering and don\u2019t really deserve the assistance.<\/p>\n In this verse, even though he refers to individuals, Paul\u2019s focus is not so much on the person as on the gift. He starts off by talking about exhortation or encouragement. This is one of the words that Jesus used to describe the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians as our \u201chelper.\u201d<\/p>\n But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. <\/span>(John 14:26<\/strong><\/span>)<\/p>\n Do you know someone who is like a coach, encouraging and challenging other Christians to commitment and service for the Lord? That\u2019s the gift of exhortation at work.<\/p>\n Someone with the gift of giving does so without expectation of receiving anything in return. The person with this gift loves to share the material blessings that he or she has with others. People with this gift are often hidden in the body of Christ because they don\u2019t seek recognition.<\/p>\n Have you ever known a Sunday School Superintendent who was gifted at organizing and running a Sunday school program? This person has the gift of leadership. If you don\u2019t like to stand up in front of others, don\u2019t enjoy planning and organizing, and aren\u2019t willing to make the tough decisions, you probably don\u2019t have the gift of leadership.<\/p>\n Most of us have a tendency to be a bit smug and self-righteous when we see a fellow Christian who is reaping the results of sinfulness in his or her life. A person with the gift of mercy, however, is compelled to reach out to that person and help them get back on their feet.<\/p>\n When we have placed ourselves on the altar as living sacrifices, we find joy and satisfaction in using the gifts that God has given us. Do you find joy in serving God? That\u2019s probably your spiritual gift at work.<\/p>\n In God\u2019s service, for His glory,<\/strong><\/p>\nTruth to Learn<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Behind the Words<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Meaning Explained<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Application<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
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