Our scripture this morning is 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (NASB1995).
For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Paul encourages us to look beyond what “momentary, light affliction” we experience here to the promise of what we don’t yet see. He was imprisioned, in poor health but as he said previously “Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16).
Paul teaches that even though we may face difficult things here, through Jesus we can be forgiven, made new and live with Him eternally. We trust that all Jesus taught is God’s word, and that promise, while yet unseen, is unshakeable.
We need to take Jesus seriously when He tells His disciples (and us) “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). While we can’t fathom what it will be like, we know from His lessons that it will be home.
Loving Lord, help us to see what we experience here is nothing compared to what You have prepared for us. Strengthen us in faith and send us to share Your love with the world. Amen.
