Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Do not plant your joy in earth and earthly things as though happiness rested there. Lift your mind to heaven for solid, full joy. From this hope springs patience in adversity; no sorrow can overwhelm it. But we are unequal to this warfare without constant prayer, gathering fresh strength daily from God's throne.
AI summary
We must first give ourselves to the Lord, this is the spring of all obedience. Present your bodies, your whole selves, as living sacrifices; it is by laying your hand on the offering and transferring all your right and interest to God that the sacrifice takes hold. Though he could command with authority, the apostle beseeches us instead, for men are more easily led than driven.
AI summary
Commenting on Romans 12:1-21
Nothing stirs a believer to cheerful service or patience in tribulation like the hope of glory itself. Tribulation is the saints' way to heaven, and they must endure it without murmuring or reviling. Prayer must be ceaseless and watchful, especially in distress, for we need fresh supplies of grace to sustain every duty.
AI summary