Romans 16 is often overlooked, but it holds profound insights that can strengthen our faith and deepen our relationship with Christ. Have you ever considered how a simple greeting or an acknowledgment of fellow believers can be a powerful act of worship?
In this chapter, Paul offers a beautiful collection of personal messages that not only reveal the importance of community in the body of Christ but also provide timeless lessons for our daily lives. As we explore these devotionals, we will uncover how each verse invites us to live with love, wisdom, and perseverance. Let’s dive in and discover how Romans 16 can transform our walk with God.
Sample Devotionals on Romans 16
#1. Devotional to Honor Faithful Servants of Christ (Romans 16:1-2)
Scripture
“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.” – Romans 16:1-2 (NIV)
Reflection
In these two short verses, Paul highlights the importance of faithful servants in the body of Christ. Phoebe is mentioned as someone who has faithfully served others, including Paul. Her act of service is not just a random deed, but a significant contribution to the work of the gospel. Paul’s words show us how vital it is to honor and support those who dedicate their lives to serving others, no matter how big or small their role may seem.
Think about the people in your life who serve faithfully, often behind the scenes. They might not always be in the spotlight, but they are no less important. Whether they are leading ministries, supporting others through prayer, or offering help in practical ways, their faithfulness contributes to the building of God’s kingdom.
Prayer
Dear God,
Thank You for the faithful servants who work tirelessly for Your kingdom. I pray that we recognize their contributions and honor them as Paul honored Phoebe. Help us to appreciate and support those who serve in Your name. May we also strive to be faithful in our own service, no matter the task. Let us always remember that every act of service, no matter how small, is an act of worship.
Amen.
Application
Who are the Phoebes in your life? Take a moment to reach out and express your gratitude for their service. Maybe it’s a church volunteer who faithfully teaches Sunday school, a neighbor who always lends a helping hand, or a family member who quietly supports others in prayer. A simple thank-you, a note of appreciation, or a small act of kindness can go a long way in making these faithful servants feel seen and valued.
Take it a step further: is there an area where you can serve alongside others? Consider how you can step up in your church or community and contribute in meaningful ways. Acts of service, no matter their size, build up the body of Christ and spread His love.
#2. Devotional to Greet One Another in Love (Romans 16:3-4)
Scripture
“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.” – Romans 16:3-4 (NIV)
Reflection
Paul’s words here speak of a deep bond that goes beyond just friendship—Priscilla and Aquila risked their lives for Paul’s sake. Their love and commitment to the work of the gospel were so strong that they were willing to put everything on the line. This level of sacrifice calls us to examine how we greet and support our fellow believers.
In a world that often emphasizes individual success, it’s easy to forget the importance of community. We are not meant to walk this journey alone. Just as Paul values the support of Priscilla and Aquila, we too need to support each other, risking our comfort and security for the sake of Christ and His mission.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the example of Priscilla and Aquila, who showed us what it means to love and support one another selflessly. Help us to greet others with the same love and openness, ready to risk our comfort for the sake of the gospel. Teach us to build strong relationships within the body of Christ, ones that are grounded in trust, sacrifice, and mutual care.
Amen.
Application
Think about the last time you greeted someone in love. Was it with warmth, a genuine heart, or just out of habit? Today, practice greeting others in a way that reflects Christ’s love. Whether it’s a simple smile, a word of encouragement, or offering help without being asked, show someone today that they are valued and loved.
Consider how you can go beyond a surface-level greeting. What are ways you can risk your comfort for someone else? Maybe it’s reaching out to a struggling friend, helping someone in need, or simply listening with an open heart. God calls us to love deeply and sacrificially. Let’s start by making our greetings meaningful and filled with love.
#3. Devotional to Recognize Fellow Workers in the Lord (Romans 16:6)
Scripture
“Greet Mary, who worked very hard for you.” – Romans 16:6 (NIV)
Reflection
Mary’s hard work for the church may seem simple in its mention, but it is a powerful reminder of the quiet, often unseen labor that makes the church function. The “unsung heroes” of the church are often those who work behind the scenes without seeking recognition or praise. Paul acknowledges Mary’s hard work because it matters to God and His kingdom.
We may not always see the hard work others put into God’s work, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less valuable. It’s not about the spotlight; it’s about a heart that’s willing to labor for the kingdom of God, no matter where or how.
Prayer
Dear Lord,
Thank You for the tireless workers like Mary, who labor in Your name without seeking recognition. Help us to honor their work and also to be faithful in our own service. Teach us to work diligently, even when no one is watching, knowing that our efforts are seen by You. May our hearts be filled with a desire to work for Your kingdom with joy and dedication.
Amen.
Application
Look for ways to acknowledge the hard work of those who serve quietly. Perhaps there’s someone who has been faithfully cleaning the church or organizing events in the background. Send them a note of thanks or simply take a moment to say, “I see the work you’re doing, and it’s making a difference.” Recognizing their effort is an opportunity to build them up and encourage them to keep going.
Consider how you can be a “quiet worker” in your own community. Maybe it’s helping a neighbor with errands, supporting a friend through prayer, or serving on a ministry team where your work is not always visible. Serving humbly without expectation of recognition is a beautiful way to mirror Christ’s example.
#4. Devotional to Rejoice in Those Who Persevere in Faith (Romans 16:10)
Scripture
“Greet Apelles, tested and approved in Christ.” – Romans 16:10 (NIV)
Reflection
Paul’s mention of Apelles is a reminder that perseverance in faith is something to be celebrated. Apelles has been “tested and approved,” meaning he has withstood trials and remained faithful. It’s easy to rejoice when things are going well, but true joy comes when we see someone persevere through adversity and still hold fast to their faith.
Each person who continues to walk in faith, even through challenges, is a testament to the power of God’s grace. We should rejoice in their perseverance and be encouraged by their example to press on in our own faith journeys.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for those who persevere through trials and remain steadfast in their faith. We rejoice with them, knowing that their strength comes from You. Help us to endure through our own trials, leaning on Your grace and trusting in Your promises. May we be inspired by the perseverance of others and encouraged to continue our walk with You.
Amen.
Application
Think about someone in your life who has faced hardship but remains strong in faith. Reach out to them with words of encouragement. Let them know that you see their perseverance and that their faith is inspiring. Their endurance can be a powerful reminder to all of us that God is faithful, even in the hardest times.
You may also reflect on your own journey. Is there a trial or difficult situation in your life that is testing your faith? Let the example of those who have persevered before you motivate you to continue trusting in God, knowing that He will carry you through. Take time to pray for strength and resolve in the areas where you are struggling.
#5. Devotional to Be Wise About What Is Good (Romans 16:19)
Scripture
“Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.” – Romans 16:19 (NIV)
Reflection
Paul’s instruction to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil may sound simple, but it is a profound guideline for living in a world that is often filled with distractions and temptations. Wisdom is not just about knowing what is right, but also about choosing it consistently, even when it’s not the popular choice.
In a society that often celebrates what is wrong, Christians are called to stand out by doing what is good. We are to be wise in our actions and thoughts, and innocent in our dealings with evil. This wisdom is not based on human understanding but on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer
Dear God,
Grant us the wisdom to discern what is good in Your eyes, and help us to pursue it wholeheartedly. We ask for Your strength to stay innocent in the face of evil and to keep our hearts and minds pure. Lead us with Your Holy Spirit and help us to reflect Your goodness in all that we do.
Amen.
Application
Examine your life today and think about where you might be facing temptations or distractions that pull you away from doing good. Choose one area where you can apply wisdom and purity today. Maybe it’s avoiding a conversation that could lead you astray, or making a decision that honors God rather than following the crowd. Take that step today and be an example of goodness to those around you.
As you walk through the day, keep your heart open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Ask Him for the wisdom to make choices that honor God in every situation, and remain innocent in your dealings with evil. Ask yourself: What does it look like to be wise about what is good in the specific areas of your life right now? Take action based on that wisdom.
#6. Devotional to Be Innocent About Evil (Romans 16:19)
Scripture
“Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.” – Romans 16:19 (NIV)
Reflection
Paul’s call for us to be innocent about evil is a powerful reminder of how we should live in a world full of temptation and moral ambiguity. We live in a culture that constantly pushes boundaries, normalizing things that are far from good. It’s easy to become desensitized or numb to what’s wrong. But God calls us to a higher standard—one where our innocence and purity are shields against the evil that lurks around us.
Being innocent doesn’t mean we ignore the realities of evil in the world; rather, it means we refuse to become entangled in it. Innocence comes from a heart that seeks purity and truth, avoiding even the appearance of evil. This doesn’t mean being unaware of sin, but it does mean being cautious not to allow it into our lives.
Prayer
Dear Lord,
I ask for Your help in keeping my heart pure and my mind innocent. In a world where evil seems to have a foothold, give me the wisdom to avoid its influence. Help me recognize temptation when it comes and to choose righteousness over sin. Let my life reflect Your holiness, and may I always seek to live in a way that pleases You.
Amen.
Application
Consider areas in your life where you may have grown desensitized to evil. Perhaps it’s the language used in conversations, the shows you watch, or the attitudes that are becoming more acceptable in society. Take a moment to reflect: Are there any small compromises you’ve made that have allowed negativity or immorality to sneak in?
This week, commit to avoiding or removing something that no longer reflects God’s purity. Maybe it’s unfollowing a social media account that spreads negativity, stepping away from gossip-filled conversations, or being mindful of what you watch. By being intentional about your choices, you protect your heart and maintain your innocence in a world full of distractions.
#7. Devotional to Trust That God Will Crush Satan Under Your Feet (Romans 16:20)
Scripture
“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.” – Romans 16:20 (NIV)
Reflection
There’s something deeply comforting about this promise from Paul. Satan, who seems so powerful and pervasive, will ultimately be defeated. And the best part? It’s not on our strength that this victory rests—it’s on God’s. He is the one who will crush the enemy, and He has already begun this work through Christ. As believers, we stand firm in the victory of Jesus, knowing that Satan’s attempts to destroy us are futile.
This is a powerful reminder that we don’t have to fight the spiritual battle alone. God, the God of peace, is actively working to bring an end to evil. All we need to do is trust in His power and stand firm in the grace He provides. Victory is guaranteed because He has already won the war.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the promise that You will crush Satan under our feet. I am grateful that I don’t have to fight this battle on my own. Help me to stand firm in Your victory and trust in Your power to defeat the enemy. May I walk confidently in the grace You provide, knowing that You are with me every step of the way.
Amen.
Application
Reflect on the areas where you feel spiritually attacked. Is it in your relationships, your mental health, or your faith journey? The enemy often tries to discourage us, but God’s promise is clear: He will crush Satan under our feet. Choose to trust that victory has already been secured for you through Christ.
Today, spend time focusing on God’s power rather than on the difficulties you face. When Satan tries to make you doubt, remind yourself of God’s promise of peace and victory. Take a moment to pray and declare God’s authority over the areas where you need His protection.
#8. Devotional to Give Glory to God for His Strength (Romans 16:25)
Scripture
“Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past.” – Romans 16:25 (NIV)
Reflection
This verse is an invitation to give glory to God for His strength and power in our lives. It’s easy to take our spiritual foundation for granted, but the truth is, everything we have—our faith, our salvation, our understanding of God’s mysteries—comes from God’s strength. He is the one who has established us, not because we earned it, but because of His grace and power.
Paul reminds us that it is through God’s strength that we stand firm in our faith. Our understanding of the gospel and the mysteries of God’s will are not things we can grasp on our own—they are gifts from God. In this, we should be filled with awe and gratitude, giving glory to the One who strengthens us.
Prayer
Dear God,
Thank You for being the source of my strength. I know that it is by Your grace and power that I stand firm in my faith. Help me to always remember that every spiritual victory, every insight into Your will, comes from You. May I continually give You the glory for the strength You provide.
Amen.
Application
How often do you give God glory for His strength in your life? Sometimes, we get caught up in our own efforts and forget that our ability to persevere in faith is a result of God’s work in us. Take a moment today to reflect on the areas where you’ve experienced God’s strength.
As you go through your day, take time to acknowledge God’s hand in your life. Praise Him for the spiritual growth you’ve experienced, the trials you’ve overcome, and the blessings He’s given. Consider keeping a journal where you write down moments where you’ve witnessed God’s strength and give Him thanks for His power in your life.
#9. Devotional to Obey the Gospel for the Glory of Christ (Romans 16:26)
Scripture
“But now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith.” – Romans 16:26 (NIV)
Reflection
Paul’s message here is powerful—obedience to the gospel comes from faith. We don’t obey to earn favor; we obey because we trust in God and His promises. The gospel isn’t just a message to be heard—it’s a call to action. It calls us to live according to God’s will, to obey His commands, and to let our faith shape our lives.
Obeying the gospel means aligning every part of our lives with God’s truth. It’s not just about following rules—it’s about reflecting Christ in our daily actions, decisions, and relationships. When we live in obedience to the gospel, we bring glory to God and demonstrate our trust in Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Help me to live in obedience to Your gospel, not out of obligation, but because of my faith in You. I want my life to reflect Your truth and Your love. Teach me to follow You faithfully in every area, so that others may see Your glory through me.
Amen.
Application
Take a moment to reflect on how you are currently living in obedience to the gospel. Are there areas where you’ve allowed your own desires to take precedence over God’s will? Identify one area where you can take action today to better align with God’s commands.
Obedience isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. Commit to taking one step of faith today. Maybe it’s reaching out to someone you’ve been avoiding, serving in a new way, or simply taking time to pray for guidance. Each act of obedience brings you closer to God’s perfect plan for your life.
#10. Devotional to Praise the Only Wise God Forever (Romans 16:27)
Scripture
“To the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.” – Romans 16:27 (NIV)
Reflection
This verse is a beautiful doxology, a praise-filled declaration of God’s wisdom and glory. Paul reminds us that God is the only wise God—His wisdom is perfect, unsearchable, and beyond our understanding. This should lead us to a life of praise, as we recognize that everything we have, everything we know, and everything we experience comes from God’s infinite wisdom.
We are called to give glory to God for His wisdom, and this is something we can do in every aspect of our lives. Whether we’re facing challenges or enjoying blessings, we should recognize that it is by God’s wisdom that we navigate life. Our response should always be praise, acknowledging that His wisdom is perfect and worthy of our highest adoration.
Prayer
Dear God,
I praise You for Your infinite wisdom, for being the only wise God. Thank You for guiding my life with Your perfect understanding and for revealing Your truth through Jesus Christ. Help me to always acknowledge Your wisdom in every area of my life and to give You glory in all things.
Amen.
Application
Consider the last time you praised God for His wisdom. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget that God is the source of all wisdom. Today, make a conscious effort to recognize His wisdom in the decisions you make. Whether it’s in how you handle relationships, work, or personal struggles, thank God for His guidance.
Take a moment to reflect on the times when you’ve seen God’s wisdom in action in your life. Praise Him for those moments, and allow your heart to be filled with awe at how perfectly He orchestrates everything. Let this awareness of His wisdom lead you to a deeper sense of trust and worship.
Closing Thoughts
As we reflect on the powerful truths found in Romans 16, we are reminded of the importance of community, service, and faithfulness in our walk with Christ. Each devotional highlights a vital aspect of living out our faith—whether it’s honoring others, trusting in God’s power, or living in obedience to the gospel.
Let these lessons guide you daily, strengthening your resolve to follow Christ with integrity and love. May you continue to grow in your understanding and application of these truths, always giving glory to the only wise God.