Week 1 | Day 2 – EAGER TO STRENGTHEN, EAGER TO SHARE – Romans 1:8–15

In this passage, Paul opens with thanks for the faith and influence of the Roman believers that has echoed through the entire Roman empire. He then pulls back the curtain on his heart sharing that he has been praying constantly for them and asking God to allow him to visit Rome so that he might encourage them and share the gospel with the Gentiles. Paul recognized his responsibility to invest the Jesus in him into them so that they too would be strengthened to carry the Gospel where they lived, worked, and played. Paul’s gratitude fueled his prayers, shaped his plans, and inspired him to go no matter the sacrifice.

Three notes ring clear:

1 - Earnest Intercession – Paul stood in the gap for the Romans to encourage them to be steadfast.

2 - Imparted Encouragement – He wanted to share his gifts as a means of encouragement to strengthen them.

3 - Holy Ambition – He carried a joyful “debt” to the lost and was eager to see a Gospel harvest among them.
 
APPLICATION
 
1 - Always be thankful for the faith of others by letting gratitude set the tone. Thank God for the faith, witness, stamina, and willingness of others to participate in loving others to Jesus.
 
Put it into practice: Call, text, or tell one person today how their faith has encouraged you.
 
2 - Always be persistent and humble in prayer by praying constantly for others always with open hands and a plan that they would honor God, build His kingdom, and accomplish His will on earth as in heaven.

Put it into practice: Pray today for 3 people: “Father, be honored in them; and may Your kingdom come and Your will be done in them, through them, and in spite of them today.”
 
3 - Seek to strengthen and be strengthened by investing the Gospel you’ve received into others.

Put it into practice: (1) Ask a believer, “How can I pray for you right now?” and then pray immediately. (2) Share your testimony with one person this week. (3) Invite someone to serve alongside of you – multiplication happens shoulder to shoulder.

God wants me to be prayerful, passionate, and personable with other believers – so together we fulfill the Great Commission where we live, work, and play.

PRAYER

Lord, make me grateful for others’ faith, faithful in prayer, and eager to strengthen and be strengthened. Open a door for the gospel through me this week, and give me courage to walk through it. Amen.”