2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

As Paul ministered in his letters to the Corinthians, he spoke at the end of 2 Corinthians 4 about how we hold this treasure of the good news of Jesus in clay pots, earthen vessels, these weak bodies of ours. As such, we are subject to challenges, difficulty, and even great suffering as a result of stepping out to share our faith in this fallen world.

Our verse this morning encourages us not to lose heart but press on. For though our outward man is slowly wearing out, the work we are engaged in is eternal and brings with it eternal rewards and consequences. With our eyes we see only the outward struggle but with our faith we must see the eternal accomplishments and one day, by comparison, what we have suffered will be of little concern when placed beside the eternal fruit.

Keep your eyes on the prize,

Pastor Jack Abeelen