“For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established— that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.”Romans 1:11-12 NKJV
Paul longed to see the Roman Christians. He wanted to impart to them some spiritual gift. He wanted to strengthen & encourage them.
There is no doubt that we can encourage each other by sending messages, letters & cards. But there is a unique power that the physical presence with saints enables spiritual strengthening. That is why we should not neglect assembling together – Heb 10:24. That is the power of Christian fellowship. That is the reason why we should visit the sick, the widows, the fatherless and all who are down-casted. Our presence & prayer with them will encourage & strengthen them.
The Gospel of Grace 