Nor are we just grimly enduring. Faith is so sure that God is answering, so sure that God is working all for the best (Romans 8:28), that there is thankfulness in every development.
Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18).
How different from the normal tendency to complain! Our trials turn into cause for “all joy” (James 1:2 cf. 2 Peter 1:6-7; Romans 5:3-4). Jesus is making us into new creatures with new attitudes (2 Corinthians 3:18; 5:17).
This new person becomes like Jesus and prays new prayers, beyond anything imagined before. Jesus prayed for God to forgive those who were killing Him (Luke 23:34), and He insists on us sharing the same forgiving and caring attitude.
Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses (Mark 11:25).
Pray then like this: “… forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors…. For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:9,12,14-15 cf. Matthew 18:21-35; Luke 6:37; 11:4; 17:3-4; Acts 7:60).
You have heard that it was said, “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:43-44).
Bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you (Luke 6:28 cf. Romans 12:14; 1 Corinthians 4:12; 2 Peter 3:9).