When Can I Stop Trying?

(Find out next week  what the next study will be...Hebrews? James? Proverbs?  Stay tuned!!)

Read Romans 16:17-27
Title in NIV: Paul's exhortation to avoid divisive people.

As Paul wraps-up his letter that Tertius penned, he warns us to watch out for divisive people who put obstacles in our way and who live contrary to the Word of God. After finding this verse, guilt left me!!!!! I had been  trying for two years to have a relationship with someone who continually hurt, offended and disappointed me. This verse gave me permission to 'stop trying'. I continue to pray for their well being, but the time consuming thoughts of how to make this friendship work are now better spent on things God has for me to do.

Verse 19 says to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil.  I understand this verse all too well. When I was younger, I didn't research movies that interested me like I do now. I have watched some movies that make me shutter to think that kind of evil exists in the world. I wish I was still naive and innocent. Now, I strive to do what Philippians 4:8 says. "Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, praiseworthy...think about such things." I have to continually 'stop trying' to feed my curiosity about evil things found in movies, t.v., magazines etc.

Verse 20 is what its all about: The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. This verse is full of hope for the future...we know who wins!!!!! Satan needs to 'stop trying' to get my heart! It belongs to Someone else!!

God can establish us through Jesus Christ. He never stops trying to claim me (or you). Thank you, Lord, that you never give up on me!