Some people dismiss the importance of Romans 16, but this chapter actually showcases one of God’s greatest priorities-relationships! God had surrounded Paul with godly men and women and he intentionally protected these life-giving relationships. These weren’t just people who wandered into Paul’s life, they were divinely appointed for mutual betterment.
Proverbs 27:17 shares; “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” and Romans 16 gives us a living example of that. God actively brings individuals into our lives for mutual benefit AND for mutual sharpening. Spending time with godly friends hones our character and increases our effectiveness in God’s kingdom. It gladdens our hearts, eases our burdens and sharpens our skill-sets. But let’s be careful who we are giving access to our hearts. If we are not better from our time together then we may need to limit their influence in our life.
In I Corinthians 15:33, Paul also warned; “Bad company corrupts good character.” In other words, you WILL become who you associate with. So let’s be careful to inventory who we are allowing to speak into (and thereby shape) our life.
Today, ask the Holy Spirit about any needed changes and while you’re at it, ask Him to expand your heart for NEW godly relationships so that together with the existing ones, you can each be sharpened, strengthened and better able to fulfil your individual and corporate callings!
Father, please surround our lives with those who passionately love You and who will loves us passionately too! Amen
Pastor Sandy