Romans 16:1-16

     Paul at this point is sending this letter to the Roman church and it was probably being delivered by Phoebe,  a servant of the church in Cenchrea .  This title of "servant"  here has long been thought to mean that she was a woman deacon or held a similar position.

     In this portion of the letter, Paul is sending greeting and affirmations to many.  He called them by name and gave some identifying information about their work  or a relationship.  And then... he said something nice about each one.

      There may be people in your life whether at work, home, or other that you would have no trouble commending - but do you?  You think it, but still don't say it.  And then there are those that it would be a stretch to find anything nice to say about them.  So stretch yourself!  Often what we give out is what we will get back.  Surprise them - be the bright spot in their day.  Find something genuine and speak it.

Build up - be a blessing.

Proverbs 12:25 An anxious heart weighs a man down but a kind word cheers him up.

Proverbs 25:11  A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.