The Evangelist Speaks

by Evangelist Carolyn Griffin

Gifts of the Father
Part 4

Today we will conclude our study on the Gifts of the Father.  Romans 12:8b. “He that ruleth (leads), with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.  As we look at leadership and mercy, we again see how important love is in the operation of spiritual gifts.  Spiritual gifts are vital in the Christian way of life, but they should be balanced with the love expressed in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; gifts are to be used in love. God is able to accomplish everything He desires quite easily, but He wants believers to respond to His love and to manifest His love to others more than He wants them to do "things" apart from love (1 Corinthians 12:31-13:8). Today we are facing many problems in the world as well as in the church. Chaos, suffering and destruction are all around us. Leadership and mercy, operating in love, can and will bring great relief in these troubled times. 

Those that are effective leaders have the ability to lead, direct and motivate people, areas of thought, and activity for the orderly, efficient, and harmonious attainment of objectives. This is not only necessary in the church, but also in our governments, schools, during national disasters  and at any time that people need to come together for a common goal. Leadership refers to the one standing out front and taking charge in a given situation. In our churches, leadership involves the exercising of the Holy Spirit in modeling, superintending, and developing the Body of Christ. The gift of leadership is the special ability that God gives certain members of the Body of Christ to set goals in accordance with God’s purpose for the future and to communicate these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish those goals for the glory of God.  Leadership is to be exercised with diligence, a persistent and hard-working effort in doing something.  The Amplified Bible states, “he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind”. Too often leaders get frustrated when difficulties arise and give up before a task is completed. God is looking for true leaders that will persevere in the midst of adversity.  It is important to seek God for the area of leadership that we are to operate in. We must emphasize that everyone with the gift of leadership is not a pastor. However, all pastors must have the spiritual gift of leadership. We must lead by precept and example.  We should not focus on personal gains, fame or notoriety as leaders. One of the desires of true leaders, operating effectively in their spiritual gift, is to help others reach their destiny and fulfill their purpose in the Body of Christ. Leaders are not intimidated by the success of others, but celebrate their accomplishments.  True leaders know that as they operate their gift in love and faithfulness, the Body of Christ and local churches grow, and God is well pleased.

The last gift listed in Romans 12 is that of mercy. Every Christian is expected to be merciful. This is a role that reflects the fruit of the Spirit. However, those with the gift of mercy have been given a special ability by God to feel genuine empathy and compassion for individuals, both Christian and non-Christian,     who suffer distressing physical, mental or emotional problems, and to translate that compassion into cheerfully done deeds that reflect Christ’s love and alleviate the suffering.  Those with the gift of mercy often engage in one-on-one relationships.  They seek out those who need help and develop a personal ministry with them. They show a practical and compassionate love. Kindness comes naturally and no payment is expected. Those in society with the greatest needs benefit from the gift of mercy. This includes the sick, the mentally and physically challenged, the prisoners, the blind, the poor, the shut-ins and the homeless.  The gift of mercy helps people mainly through deeds of love.   We give and do what is needed in the Name of Jesus. This great gift is operated with cheerfulness and joy.

Let us all continue to grow together in unity and in love as we operate in our God given gifts.