Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
– 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, NIV
You might be able to really relate to the “outwardly wasting away” part of these verses.
I know I could during the darkest valleys of separation, adultery discovery, and divorce. The trauma was truly great.
Yet the Apostle Paul does not stop there…
He reminds us that this suffering is not wasted. God does not allow us to walk through these tear-filled times without a redemptive purpose in mind. While we might not see the redemptive plan while in the crucible of suffering, God is still sovereign and at work.
Do not forget. Paul is not making light of our suffering. He understands the real cost that comes with unjust suffering as a man who nearly died for the Gospel on multiple occasions.
The Apostle Paul is merely giving us a proper perspective on that suffering.
We are living in the “momentary” time compared to eternity.
Today’s troubles are a mere teardrop into the ocean known as eternity.
Cheaters are all about “the short game.”
They go after momentary pleasures that pale in comparison to an eternity of glory with God.
Don’t be so shortsighted as them:
Keep your good name.
Remain faithful to the end.
Integrity is worth keeping.
And remember that even this heavy time is not a waste. God delights in taking our suffering–yes, especially, suffering born of injustice–and turning us into beings of glory for His Good Namesake.
Thank you for this post. I needed to hear these words today.