New Testament
Romans 8:25
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But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it with patience.
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But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
What Romans 8:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul emphasizes the importance of hope in the Christian life. He acknowledges that believers often hope for things that are not yet visible or tangible, such as the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate redemption of creation. This hope is not passive; it requires active waiting. Patience is a key component of this waiting, as it reflects trust in God's timing and faithfulness. The verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their hope, even when circumstances seem challenging or uncertain. By focusing on what is to come, Christians can endure present difficulties with a sense of purpose and expectation. This hope is rooted in faith, reminding believers that what they cannot see now will one day be revealed. Thus, the call to wait patiently is a call to maintain faith in God's promises, reinforcing the idea that hope is a powerful motivator in the life of a believer.
How to apply Romans 8:25 to your life
In our daily lives, we can cultivate patience by focusing on our hopes and trusting in God's timing. When faced with challenges, remind yourself of the promises God has made. This perspective can help you endure difficulties and maintain a positive outlook as you wait for better days ahead.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
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Plain Meaning
You cannot hope for something you already have. So if we are waiting for something we cannot yet see, we wait for it with patience. That is what hope requires. The waiting is not giving up — it is what real hope looks like when the thing has not arrived yet.
Read It in Context
Paul says believers are groaning as they wait for the full redemption of their bodies (verse 23). He says they are saved by hope. But hope is only hope when the thing is not yet in hand. Verse 25 follows from that: unseen hope and patient waiting go together.
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At a Glance — the Book of Romans
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 8:25 mean?
Romans 8:25 highlights the significance of hope in the Christian life, emphasizing that believers wait patiently for things they cannot yet see, such as God's promises and future redemption.
What is the meaning of hope in Romans 8:25?
In Romans 8:25, hope refers to the confident expectation of future fulfillment of God's promises, even when they are not currently visible or tangible.
How can I apply Romans 8:25 in my life?
You can apply Romans 8:25 by focusing on your hopes and trusting in God's timing during difficult times, which can help you maintain a positive outlook as you wait for better days.
What does patience mean in Romans 8:25?
In Romans 8:25, patience means enduring and waiting with trust and confidence in God's plan, even when the fulfillment of His promises is not immediately visible.
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