Romans 12:12: Patient in tribulation.
While Paul refers to life in the church in verse 10 (referring to “brotherly love”), here is the first hint of persecution—Be … patient in affliction. Paul, no stranger to affliction for the sake of the gospel, stated a principle in Acts 14:22 which summarizes what he is beginning to share with the believers in Rome: “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Only the believer who has made a decision to be a living sacrifice can maintain zeal and patience in affliction. 1
Application
- Read 2 Timothy 3:12. This is the answer to your question about suffering as a Christian.
- We become more patient in life by surrendering ourselves completely into His lovingly Lordship. We must say, each day, not my will…but Your will be done.
Prayer
Lord, in my pain and sorrow and suffering, I look to You for the power of Your Holy Spirit to rescue me and strengthen me. May Your purposes be accomplished in my life.
1. Boa, K., & Kruidenier, W. (2000). Romans (Vol. 6). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.