Jesus calls some to encourage others into spiritual growth and maturity by gifting them with the special motivational gift of exhortation. Motivated by a passionate desire for others to grow in Christ; they delight in watching God’s work flourish within the lives of others. Because they can see past all the mess of today, focusing on God’s finished product; they urge the young believer on. They clearly discern the problems of faith and theology standing in the way of success; laying out step by step the process one must follow to achieve their fullest potential in Christ Jesus. Each step outlined is clearly based on Biblical Principles; with strict detail to accurate theology.
Before establishing the step by step plan, those with the gift of exhortation invest many hours of study. When they are one on one with those whom they are helping, they observe and analyze the problem prayerfully before developing the best plan. When those who are gifted with exhortation write or speak publicly, they often have either themselves lived through the problems or knew someone who did. That way they bring experience to the table. I see portraits of exhortation in the books of Lysa Terkeurst, as well as in her speaking style.
EXHORTERS SEE TRIALS AS MERELY STEPPING STONES
Because they need to fully analyze the situation, developing the best plan; others criticize them for being too nosy or “in your face.” This is particularly true when the person they are helping doesn’t demonstrate any improvement or will to improve. At other times, they are thought to be insensitive or uncaring; because, they see trials as stepping stones to Glory.
Usually, much like mercy; those with the gift of Exhortation have themselves walked many a mile with trials and tribulations of their own. For that reason, they know the steps they want to teach someone are tried and true. Having walked the road; they know God is faithful to complete the work He began in each child.
BIBLICAL EXAMPLE: Paul
Certainly, Paul, himself was no stranger to pain, trials, and tribulations. He knew in detail each step necessary to grow in Christ. His desire always was to return and to see the growth accomplished in each believer. He rejoiced when he heard of their growth in the faith; urging them on with joyful glee.
15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead Ephesians 1
Gift of Exhortation: In the Spirit vs In the Flesh
When abiding in the Spirit; those with the gift of exhortation shine brightly with wisdom, discernment, faith, discretion, love, and enthusiasm. When the flesh reigns supreme in their life, they stand judgmental, critical, presumptive, simple minded, selfish, apathetic underachievers.
DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WITH THE GIFT OF EXHORTATION?
Most likely you do, and if not; probably you should. Don’t react defensively when they ask so many questions. They truly want to discover why you are struggling; thereby, developing a plan for you to grow in Christ Jesus. Also, they love to hear about your advancements in the knowledge of Christ. They even love to hear you talk about God and all that He taught you during the storms; because, they are ecstatic to see your growth in the knowledge of God.
IF EXHORTATION IS YOUR GIFT
Learn to explain why you are asking so many questions. Be quick to share your own struggles with open, vulnerability; demonstrating your understanding. When you share your own failures or trials, it opens the door for others to be open and honest as well. Whatever, God has walked you through has purpose and value in helping others to grow from your journey.
Paul’s instructions:
8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation 12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer 15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12 Appeal to the heart, not just the mind; drawing a brother or sister in Christ aside, encouraging them each step of the way. Always, willing to walk beside them however long it takes.
CONCLUDING TWEETS
[bctt tweet=”The Encouragers of the Brethren with the gift of Exhortation-enlighten the path” username=”effiedarlene”]
[tweetthis]Because I walked this path before you, let me help you find your way[/tweetthis]
[tweetthis]Wisdom discernment faith discretion love, & enthusiasm-Exhortation’s gift[/tweetthis]
[tweetthis]Having walked the road through trials; they know God is faithful[/tweetthis]
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR? OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link, if you have a prayer request email me by clicking here or comment here
OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE
A Broken and Contrite Heart, I published in 2010, answers the question, “What do I do when I keep falling into the same sin? Does God hate me because I keep failing to get this right? So, where do I begin again and find joy in my salvation; after, falling. If you want to know more about this book or the other books I have written: You can find a link at: Book Resources.
©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
The inscription I added, the Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash