Romans 1:12
Romans 1:12
That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
Paul is deeply concerned about the people to whom he is writing. There is a strong desire in his heart to visit them personally in Rome. By giving them or serving them with some kind of spiritual gift, he seeks to strengthen them. It is now apparent that Paul realizes that the encouragement would be reciprocal. By encouraging each other's faith, they would both benefit. Being inspired by the trust others place in God encourages us and challenges us as well. This is, perhaps more than anything, a glimpse into the heart of a man who might have experienced periods of loneliness and discouragement from the difficulties he endured for Christ's sake. Paul was clearly aware of the joy of genuine Christian fellowship in a lost world hostile to God and displaying hatred for God's people. He shows a genuine desire to visit these faithful believers in his letter. During these dark times, sincere Christian fellowship and encouragement are more important than ever. The spiritual gifts and graces given to each believer should be used to encourage and exhort one another. The apostle Paul taught that our spiritual gifts are to be used to edify, exhort, teach, comfort, build up, and encourage the Church of Christ.
2 Corinthians 1:4
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
Psalms 94:19
In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.
Matthew 11:28
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Psalms 34:18
The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.