36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. (Romans 8:36 KJV)
William Burkitt’s Commentary
As if Apostle Paul had said, “The saints of old have endured all manner of suffering, and yet were not separated from the love of God; therefore, the like or worse suffering shall not be able to separate us now.”
Here note, What may be the lot and portion of believers in this life, and that is, killing for the sake of Christ; For thy sake we are killed all the day long. The words all the day long, denote the continuance of the persecution, the unweariedness of the enemy, and the patience of the saints.
Learn hence, That such as resolve upon the profession of Christianity must prepare for killing, if God requires, and be ready to lay down their lives for their religion, when God calls: For thy sake we are killed; that is, ready to be sacrificed; a readiness of disposition, and a preparation of mind, is found with us, to part with all that is dear to us, even life itself, for the sake of Christ.