Paul's Love List (7)

Romans 12:12b

By Pastor Craig Phelps, November 04, 2023

Introduction: With list item #7 Paul gives us a stark reminder that in this life difficulties and the anguish that come with them are unavoidable.

10a regarding brotherly love to one another - the love of a parent to a child,

10b regarding honoring each other - leading the way by example.

11a regarding diligence – not sluggish,

11b regarding the spirit – boiling,

11c regarding the Lord – serving,

12a regarding hope – rejoicing,

12b regarding affliction – enduring,

  • Affliction:
  • Enduring:
  • Trials are to be (The Whole Bible).
  • Christians are not (1 Peter 4:12).

  • We rejoice in these trials because those who are identified with Him in His will also be identified with Him in His (1 Peter 4:13).

  • We rejoice because our perseverance is to His (1 Peter 4:14).

  • We rejoice because our perseverance proves our faith is and our salvation is (1 Peter 1:6-8).

  • Enduring affliction character and hope within us (Romans 5:3-4).

Closing Thought: We need not look for or pursue trials. They will come naturally in this fallen world and even more so, as a result of the spiritual war in which we are engaged. While this might seem quite troubling, Peter and Paul show us clearly the good that can and will arise from it and Jesus Himself gives us a very encouraging perspective when He says, "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." – John 16:33