First, I give thanks to my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is heralded throughout the world. God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in proclaiming the gospel of his Son, that I remember you constantly, always asking in my prayers that somehow by God’s will I may at last find my way clear to come to you.
Romans 1:8-10
In his letters, Paul regularly thanked God for the community he addressed. When writing to the Romans, Paul thanked God for their faith. They had such a deep faith and trust in God that it was known throughout the whole world. Paul told the Roman Christians that he longed to be come to them and visit with them.
Paul praises the Romans because of their strong faith. They have inspired many others throughout the world. Call to mind someone whose faith has been an inspiration to you. Perhaps it is your parents who modeled faith for you as a child. Perhaps it is a member of your small group or someone who volunteers in a ministry at church.
Thank God today for someone who has inspired you and encouraged you to grow in faith. After your prayer, write an e-mail, a text, or an actual letter to let him or her know about your prayer of gratitude.