Prayer Root Ministries -> Praying through Scripture -> Romans -> Romans 16
Scripture (ESV)
I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.
For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
Timothy, my fellow worker, greets you; so do Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen. I Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord. Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus, greet you.
Prayer Root: Word to Prayer
Heavenly Father,
While a Christlike heart longs for faithfulness, goodness, and love, I am reminded that it is equally important to remain alert to sin and its crafty ways of entering into our lives. I pray, Lord, that You would give me spiritual discernment—to rightly recognize those who cause divisions and place obstacles contrary to Your truth. Grant me the discipline and courage to avoid teachings and influences that oppose Your truth.
Lord, guard my heart from smooth talk and flattering words that do not serve Your church but serve personal appetites. Keep me from being swayed by appearances or persuasive speech that lacks the fruit of obedience and humility.
Make me wise, Lord, in understanding what is truly good and what is evil. Many times evil comes clothed as gentle advice, a kind suggestion, or a helping hand—but with intentions that do not align with the words spoken. Sharpen my discernment through Your Spirit, that I may walk in truth, purity, and obedience.
May I remain innocent toward evil and steadfast in good. And may the God of peace rule over my heart and mind. May the grace of my Lord Jesus Christ always be with me.
Rooted in prayer, rejoicing in Christ.