Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Romans 12:12

This Bible verse explains to me how I can better manage my mature years in a God-pleasing way. First, I embrace the hope God provides through the forgiveness of sins, deliverance from evil, and his promise of eternal life. When I cling to God’s assurances, I rejoice more readily and complain less about my frustrations or circumstances. Secondly, this verse encourages patience with trials. That is nearly impossible on my own. I’ve learned that rejoicing in God’s hope and striving for patience during difficulties steer me to look upward and not inward. Third and most important, God instructs me to come to him constantly and earnestly with my pleas and concerns. He always hears me.

MaryAnn Sundby
Castle Rock, CO

Dear Almighty Father, help me to rejoice in your hope, be patient through trials, and continue to pray in all circumstances. Amen.

Reflect: Which illustrations of Christian love from Romans 12 describe you?

Read: Romans 12:9-18 and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18