THE POWER OF IMPARTATION

Scripture

For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established (Romans 1:11).

Devotional

The Apostle Paul makes a remarkable statement in his letter to the Romans. He says, "...I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift..." (Romans 1:11). This reveals something vital: spiritual gifts can be imparted. This wasn't a casual desire for Paul; it was a consciousness of divine ability. He knew that when he came to them, something would be transmitted. He goes further to say, "that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me" (Romans 1:12).

This means the impartation would take place through the workings together of their faith; his faith and theirs. The things of the Spirit don't happen by chance; they are activated by faith—conscious, active faith. Notice something else: Paul didn't say, "When I come, we'll pray and ask God to give you something." No. He spoke from the standpoint of what had already been made available in Christ.

This is the same understanding we have today. For example, when some were healed by the Holy Spirit in the Spirit, you weren't asking, "...how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" (Luke 11:13). Therefore, we minister the Spirit, because it's already God's will. Hallelujah!

The Bible also says, "Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands..." (1 Timothy 4:14). Furthermore, in 2 Timothy 1:6, Paul said, "...stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands." These show clearly that there's a transmission of spiritual endowment. But notice the purpose as read in our opening scripture, "...to the end ye may be established." Such impartations bring stability. They strengthen you and build you up in your walk with God.

Therefore, value moments of spiritual intimacy and impartation. When the Word is taught, when hands are laid on you, and when there's an atmosphere of faith, open your spirit and respond with faith; that's how you receive. Also, grow in your own consciousness of the Spirit. You're not limited; you're a channel of blessing. You can minister life, grace and spiritual endowments to others as you yield to the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for the ministry of the Holy Spirit in my life and the impartations I receive from your Word that strengthen and establish me in the faith. I walk in the consciousness of the power of the Holy Spirit at work in me, as a channel of blessing to others, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.