Now begin paraphrasing the verse by rewriting each phrase using your own words. As you do this, be sure to personalize the verse to fit your situation. For example, when you see the words you or we in reference to believers, substitute your name, I, or me. If words such as trial or sin relate to your circumstances, describe what you’re facing. Before you begin paraphrasing a particular passage of the Bible, ask God to help you restate it accurately. The purpose of paraphrasing God’s word is to apply it to your situation, not to change the meaning of Scripture or rationalize sin. Pray that you will know and experience the truth of God’s word more intimately.

As you personalize your verse, use appropriate synonyms for each word. If you’re not sure how to restate something, seek help in a thesaurus. Make sure the words flow from one line to the next. You want your final paraphrase to read as a complete thought, not a group of unconnected words and phrases.

Once you’ve completed this exercise, meditate on the different facets of truth you’ve discovered. Ask God to show you what God wants you to learn and how to apply it to your life. Sometimes it isn’t easy, and it may take some time for you to discover what God is
trying to show you.

For that quote from Romans — “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose” — here’s the paraphrase I came up with: