Definition: As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Romans 8:36. It's a really thought-provoking one and has a lot of layers to it. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that we are facing suffering and death, but God is actively working for us. It’s like being tossed into a storm – you're vulnerable, but God is protecting you from the worst of it. Let’s unpack each part: “As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long” : This means that we , as individuals, are experiencing hardship, pain, and even death – not necessarily in a dramatic way, but consistently. It’s about a persistent struggle with challenges in our lives. Think of it like being stuck in a difficult situation that keeps happening throughout the day. “We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” : This is the really striking part. "Sheep" represents humanity – we're created to be vulnerable, susceptible to suffering, and ultimately, to death. "Accounted as sheep for the slaughter" means that our fate is predetermined to experience pain and loss. It’s a harsh but realistic image of what happens to us when we are in God’s care. It doesn't mean we will be killed; it just means we are expected to experience suffering. So, What Does This Mean? The verse is rooted in the idea that God’s love extends even to our suffering. It suggests: God’s Purpose: God isn't indifferent to our pain. He wants to protect us and work for our good. Our Freedom from Fear: Because we are “counted as sheep,” we don’t have to fear death entirely. We’re not in a hopeless situation. God is working through our suffering to bring about something better for us. In essence, the verse speaks of a paradoxical reality: we're facing hardship, but God is actively involved in our salvation and protection. Important Note: This verse doesn’t minimize suffering; it acknowledges it as a part of life. However, it emphasizes that through God’s grace, we are not alone and have the potential for a future where we experience ultimate victory and peace. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse might be applied to different situations?