2 Corinthians 4:16-18 -- “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.”
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Do you have something you are looking forward to right now? Are you excited about an upcoming event? How about a different question; are you in the midst of a painful situation or difficult stretch in your life? The truth is, you can probably answer ‘yes’ to both of these questions, the theme of which Paul is speaking in these verses.
The good news about the tough times is that eventually, they do go away. They may not come to an end in the way we anticipate: a long battle with illness for a loved one who succumbs to its affliction; a financial struggle which ends a loss of savings; a precarious relationship which breaks apart. But, they do come to an end and we are given the opportunity to look back and reflect on their lessons and value as the pain of that moment, starting bright and hot, fades and diminishes over time.
However, let’s not be mistaken. It is really hard while we are living through those very tough times which cause us to question our existence and the assurance of God’s steady hand in our lives. If you are in the midst of one of those moments right now, my heart goes out to you in prayer and encouragement. It is easy for people to say “don’t worry...it will be all right...hang in there”. They, nor I, am experiencing the pain you feel right now. It is personal and unique to you and no amount of words can allow someone else to know exactly what you are going through.
Paul’s words are interesting in the sense that maybe he is just not talking about a tough time he and the Corinthians are going through. This verse always strikes me that he might be referencing something larger; the entirety of our time on this earth. In general, life is a bit of a slog. In the scheme of things, it is a constant struggle. Of course, we have times of great joy and periods where it seems at least that things are going better than worse. But let’s face it, life is tough!
The good news is that, even though we can become discouraged by life’s long march, we all have something to look forward to. When we have a taste of something larger, when we can feel or see just a glimpse of what might be the bigger picture, aren’t we more excited about its impending arrival? Surprises are great, but when they come, our joy is instantaneous and quickly becomes happiness derived from looking backward. The anticipation of what is to come, an eternal life with God in Heaven, can help us get through the harsher moments. This time on earth provides experiences, both good and bad, which allow us to build an appreciation for what is to come. Our pain refines us and our joy fills us.
So, remember, this too shall pass. But, while we are living in this time of struggle...a life of struggle...recognize that there are also great joys around us and to which we can look forward. The refinement we are experiencing through this time can be a means to bring us enrichment and strength. We look forward to the great joy to come despite this momentary affliction, whether it lasts 90 seconds, 90 days, 90 months or 90 years. It is temporary; focus not on the temporary, but the eternal and the great joy it will bring.
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