I see the order of this verse as very well orchestrated. Three short instructions, starting with “rejoice in hope.” Hope is something Christians have that the world does not. We know what awaits us when we leave this world behind. We can’t see it now, but we know it’s there, and we will one day fall into the arms of our Savior where there’s no more tears, no more pain, no worry, no more fear. If we continually rejoice in hope, we will find the means to be patient in affliction. Hope reminds us that the trials of this life are temporary—hardly a blip in light of eternity. Hope gives us a reason to be persistent in prayer, ever lifting the lost to the Father and asking for their salvation so they, too, will know the Source of Hope. Persistent prayer also keeps us connected to the Father, who strengthens us and helps us endure affliction. I guess we could say this verse brings us full circle. Three simple sentences; three powerful instructions.