As we are making our way through a section of Romans chapter 12, we are looking at the distinguishing marks of a Christian. Today we will see in verse 12 the character traits of rejoicing, being patient in tribulation, and being constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12 “Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;”
The word rejoice means to experience great joy. The beginning of the word “re” means to do it again. In this verse, we are to continue to take great joy in the hope of our eternal life. Our hope does not mean wishing for something or having a desire that it will happen. Our hope is an anticipation of what we know is to come. It is based on the confidence we have in our Lord. It is a “know so” hope. It is based on the knowledge of our God that he cannot lie and what He says will happen. Our hope is based on truth and removes all doubt about our eternal life when we place our faith in Him.
This hope allows us to be patient in tribulation. We wait and endure because we know our sorrows and trials are not the end. We are patient because the struggles of this world do not shake our foundation. It is firmly anchored on the One who is sovereign, and we are secure in Him.
In Romans 5:2-5, we see the same sentiments in Romans 12:12. Paul repeats the truth we stand on, and explains it a little more clearly. We have access to our hope in Christ through our faith. God extends grace to us. Grace is His unmerited favor extended to us. This grace opens the door for rejoicing. As we go through the hard times we look back and remember God’s grace, as we look forward, we rest in His grace. God teaches us His attributes of mercy, grace, love, and hope as He walks us through the joys and sorrows of this life. Our trials cause us to look to Him for help, comfort, and guidance. This causes us to study so we can know Him better. Knowing more about Him causes us to love Him more. The more we know Him the more we want to spend time with Him. As this cycle progresses, we should learn to rejoice amid our tribulations because our hope is secure, and we know in our hearts He is in control.
Romans 5:2-5 “By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope makes not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”
Another mark of a true Christian mentioned in Romans 12:12 is prayer. The only way to continue to rejoice with a patient heart is to be in constant communion with the Father. We talk to Him throughout the day, we set aside time to spend with Him. As we pray, He answers. As we pray, we gain strength. Our prayer may not be answered with the outcome we desire, but He will answer in a way that is best for us. Faith accepts the answer, and our confidence grows deeper in the One who we know is in control.
Do you have the mark of rejoicing, patience, and prayer? I’m confident that all of us could improve on these distinguishing characteristics. We must always be diligently guarding our hearts and minds to press forward to be all that God wants us to be.
