For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:17
Believe it or not, troubles do not last always. Though while we are in trouble, it feels as if we will never come out on the other side. Eventually, everyone gets delivered from his or her trouble. The Psalmist affirms, “The righteous persons may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all” (Psalm 34:19).
For some people, however, that deliverance may be delayed for one reason or another. Yet they should not lose hope as they wait on the Lord. Waiting on God in times of trouble is a time of pruning and preparation. Troubles tend to come more fiercely during our waiting season to attack our faith in God.
When troubles come, we have to remember the words of Paul in today’s text, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” In other words, we have to change our perspective on our troubles. They are preparing us to inherit our eternal glory.
That does not mean we should welcome trouble. However, it does imply that we do not have to lose hope or grow bitter in times of trouble. Sooner or later, the waves of trouble will pass over us, and we will walk into our eternal inheritance.
Troubles are always temporary, no matter how long they last. They are also inevitable. Every living being experiences trouble. Troubles do not indicate a failure or inadequacy. Some people experience trouble precisely because they are living godly.
Those who are experiencing troubles because of their Christian lifestyle and commitment to Jesus Christ should be encouraged because their troubles are achieving for them an eternal glory that far outweighs all their suffering. That means when we are talked about, or abused, or mistreated, or criticized, or ostracized we should remain undaunted in our determination to bear fruits of righteousness.
If you are facing legal trouble because of your advocacy for justice, rejoice. Your troubles are achieving for you an eternal glory that will surpass your hardships. Those that are facing financial troubles because of their benevolent spirit should trust that God will continue to supply all their needs according to his riches in glory.
In the last verse of the same chapter, Paul reminds believers to fix their eyes on what is unseen. Fixing our eyes on God helps to make our troubles less formidable than they appear. Those who fix their eyes on God will see his glory and be enraptured by the power of his might.
Christians are not to feel defeated, or live in despair because our eyes are fixed on Almighty God, who can do exceedingly and abundantly more than we can ask or imagine. Behold, God will never forsake us during our trouble. Therefore, we are to give thanks in all circumstances and rejoice because “our troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
I want to close today's devotional with the lyrics from Nolan Williams, Jr. song entitled, “Take it to the Lord in Prayer”:
Have we trials and temptations
Is there trouble anywhere
Our precious Savior
He is still our refuge
Take it to the Lord in prayer
Prayer- Blessed Lord, we bring all our troubles to you in prayer today. May those that are desperate to get out of trouble or feeling hopeless because of their trouble know that you are a deliverer and a refuge for those who trust in you.
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