Verse of the Day - 2 Corinthians 4:17-18

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. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. ~ 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (NIV)

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How many people read this verse and think, Oh, Paul must be talking about heaven! So, I'll just set my sights on heaven, hoping to get out of this God-forsaken place to the "land of glory"...

I think, in part, he's talking about heaven -- about that time/place when believers in Jesus Christ will be taken out of the world (or from the grave), and we live in the absence of sin and the presence of God forever. Yes, that will be glory like we have never known nor can even comprehend! But, what about the unseen glories here and now that we experience due to our troubles? Are there some intangibles that you've gained with God through your hard times?

I know you have, because God's Word says that's how our spiritual lives work.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. ~ James 1:2-4 (NIV)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Perseverance and peace are unseen, but so important to a believer. And what about patience, kindness, and wisdom? You can't feel or taste or touch these either, but in our trials and circumstances, we're given the gift of these intangibles that are glorious, because they reflect the glory of God. We are being changed from glory to glory, as the Word says...

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
~ 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NKJV)

So, when you "set your sights on things eternal, not things temporal" (one of my favorite, oft quoted paraphrases), remember that we should focus not just on our eternal home in heaven with God, but our continual spiritual walk with God here on earth. Strive for and revel in the unseen work and blessings He is weaving in your life. It's all part of that "from glory to glory" living that comes with a relationship with God, the Father, through Jesus Christ, the Son!

I hope you can sense the unseen work that He's doing in and through you on a daily basis. Look for it, and give Him the praise!

Love,
Joelene