Week 12 | Day 4 – YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND IN ME – Romans 16:1-16

In Romans 16, Paul closes his letter with a long list of names—ordinary people who made an extraordinary difference in his life and ministry. He mentions Phoebe, Priscilla and Aquila, Andronicus and Junia, Rufus, and many others—not because of their titles or positions, but because of their friendship, faithfulness, and service to Christ. Gratitude marked Paul’s leadership. He didn’t wait to be thanked; he gave thanks. True spiritual maturity expresses appreciation freely and often. Gratitude softens the heart, strengthens relationships, and honors the God who gives every good gift.

Being thankful is more than polite—it’s a posture of humility. And nowhere is gratitude more needed than in the life of those who lead. Leaders who give thanks generously rarely grow bitter. Gratitude keeps your eyes on God and your heart warm toward others. As Paul demonstrated, it’s better to be thankful than to be thanked.

APPLICATION

1 - Name Your Blessings Out Loud

Take time to express gratitude specifically, just as Paul did. Thank people by name for what they mean to you. Be the instigator of appreciation long before you expect to be a recipient of appreciation.

2 - Lead with Appreciation, Not Expectation

Don’t wait for the applause; initiate appreciation. Gratitude leads to influence far more than entitlement ever will. One of the essential qualities that make life work is choosing to give appreciation without seeking appreciation in return.

3 - Honor Those Who Honor You

When someone expresses thanks, don’t brush it off. Receive it humbly and return the kindness by thanking them in turn. Never take gratitude for granted and return appreciation with appreciation.

4 - Be the Instigator of Thankfulness

In every room, in every role, choose to start the gratitude cycle. You never know how far your encouragement might travel. Gratitude is contagious!

PRAYER

Father, thank You for the people You’ve placed around me—friends, co-laborers, encouragers, and faithful servants. Forgive me for the moments I’ve taken their love and support for granted. Teach me to be a person who gives thanks freely, not one who craves recognition. Help me see every person as a gift from You and to honor them with a grateful heart. Make me an initiator of appreciation, a carrier of encouragement, and a reflection of Your generous grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.