Paul, the author of the letter to the Church in Rome, frequently encouraged the believers in Rome amidst the persecution and adversity they were experiencing. The first half of Paul’s letter corrects some of their thinking, while the second half is focused on their character and actions.

In Romans 12, Paul encourages the believers to let love be the primary motivation for everything they do. When love is the foundation of who they are, then God can renew and transform every area of life. When they allow God to transform their character, that’s when they’re able to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.

Christians have a unique hope in Jesus-we know that Jesus is victorious over evil and will one day return to make everything right. This means we can have hope in the midst of suffering or difficult times.

Paul knew that affliction produces steadfast character within us. When we choose to endure suffering. Jesus forms strength and confidence within us that we couldn’t attain otherwise.

But perseverance through affliction also requires constant communication with the One who transforms us through His love. Prayer is a vital part of this. It is the primary way we communicate with God, and it’s also part of how the Holy Spirit strengthens us for following Jesus.

These three things create within us a stronger character in life. They mold us into the image of Jesus who was joyful in hope, patient in suffering, and faithful in prayer. So today, take some time to think of a few ways that you can become more like Jesus in these areas.

Scripture:

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

Romans 12:12

Prayer:

God, I am grateful for all the plans You have made for my life. Because You are in control, I can place my hope in You even when I face trouble. Going forward, please help me to have honest conversations with You when my future feels unclear. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Welcome:

This is your time to pause and rest.
Take a deep breath, and let yourself slow down.
Make space to enjoy God’s presence.

Honor God:

God, You reign above all! You are above all things and You hold all things together. Your name is Holy, and Your words bring life and healing. You make known to me the paths that lead to life! All glory, honor, power, and praise belong to You alone! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God’s Concerns:

You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

John 15:16

God chose you.

Allow God to encourage you as you talk to him about what you need.

A Prayer For Peace With Others:

God, You invite me into a peaceful relationship with You where I can be fully known and loved. You also invite me to pursue peace with others around me. Please help me to approach my relationships with grace and wisdom. Grant me the knowledge to recognize when I should speak and when I should listen as I pursue peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Prayer Of Thanks:

God, You are good, and Your steadfast love endures forever! Even in the hardest seasons, I always have a reason to worship You.

Thank You for giving me victory and abundant life in Jesus Christ! Although I don’t deserve it, You shower me with unconditional love and forgiveness.

And so no matter what the future may hold, I will shout for joy because You are with me. You comfort me and bless me in the presence of my enemies. Nothing compares to You and no weapon can stand against You. In all things, I am more than a conqueror through You!

Be glorified through me, God. Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart bless Your name. I want my life to bring You praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God’s Protection:

Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me: Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Psalm 23:4

Re-read this verse slowly and pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you.

Let God comfort you with this verse today.

Closing:

You’ve reached the end, but this is only the start of your conversation with God.

Spend a few moments processing your prayer time, and come back again soon.