Romans 12:12 - Be joyful in hope

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

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

rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer,

Romans 12:12

Commentary

No matter what our present circumstances may be, we can and should rejoice in our hope-the coming of our Savior, the redemption of our bodies, and our eternal glory. We are exhorted to be patient in tribulation-that is, to bear up bravely under it. We should continue steadfastly in prayer. It is in prayer that the work is done and victories are won. Prayer brings power in our lives and peace to our hearts. Therefore we do ourselves a great disservice when we neglect to pray.

MacDonald, W., & Farstad, A. (1997, c1995). Believer's Bible Commentary : Old and New Testaments (Ro 12:12). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

Romans 13:7 - Give everyone what you owe him

Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

Romans 13:7

Commentary

Believers are citizens of heaven, but we must not minimize our responsibilities on earth. We must be exemplary citizens so that the Lord will be glorified (1 Pet. 2:11-17).

Wiersbe, W. W. (1997, c1991). With the word Bible commentary (Ro 13:1). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

"Whatever makes men good Christians makes them good citizens." - Daniel Webster