Good morning to all the frozen chosen,

Paul is proud of these believers in Rome. Paul says that, "... your faith is being reported all over the world." There was no Internet, let alone phones etc. but it was out that these believers were standing firm in their faith. Paul had not even been there and there was no New Testament. It is amazing that a fledgling church could survive in Rome and about three hundred years later Christianity would be announced as the official religion. Paul had them in his prayers all the time and do not believe this was some nice thing he was saying--in other words he really was praying for them.

Paul wanted to visit to impart some spiritual gift to them and then he talks about the mutual encouragement they would be to each other. How would these people be an encouragement to Paul? Their faith was in practice. To see believers in action is always an encouragement to God's people no matter their position. What you know make sure it is put to practice. You may encourage people without really knowing it but it is never wasted energy to obey the Lord!!