2 Corinthians 4:16-18
For this reason we never become discouraged. Even though our physical being is gradually decaying, yet our spiritual being is renewed day after day. And this small and temporary trouble we suffer will bring us a tremendous and eternal glory, much greater than the trouble. For we fix our attention, not on things that are seen, but on things that are unseen. What can be seen lasts only for a time, but what cannot be seen lasts forever. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (GNT)
Paul’s life of faith was certainly not an example of the prosperity gospel which teaches that if you are "saved" you will be blessed with financial wealth and physical health. He had been shipwrecked, beaten, run out of town and suffered from an unnamed disease. It’s no wonder that the people of the church in Corinth, which Paul founded, wondered about his relationship with God and stopped listening to him, including rejecting the advice he gave them in his first letter, 1 Corinthians. He tried visiting them to repair the relationship but it didn’t go well. In this letter, 2 Corinthians, he’s trying to emphasize the importance of the message while recognizing that it is delivered through a very imperfect person.
It's not about us. It’s not about aging or sickness or politics or gender or money or success or any of the challenges that we spend so much of our time thinking about.
And yet, it is all about us.
- It’s about listening to see how you can serve in the world.
- It’s about finding hope even in the hard times.
- It’s about looking for God’s presence in all people and all living things.
- It’s about spending time with God.
Not a complete list, but you can see the difference between the two. It’s the difference between trying to control what’s happening and trusting God in the unseen.
For over a year I’ve been on this path. After I retired from Southwood, much of my life was focused on helping with grandkids. While I will always be thankful for the time I got to spend with them, they have grown up and that season of my life has passed. What’s next? This devotion assignment was very timely. It’s time to listen and trust.
Questions for Reflection:
- How do you think your relationship with God affects how you live out your faith?
- What’s hardest for you to turn over to God and trust?
Prayer:
Loving and ever-present God, This world can be an unpredictable and difficult place. We need you as we struggle to live and love each other. Surround us with your love as we strive to listen and trust. Amen.
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