Light and Momentary by David Jeremiah

Monday, September 4

Light and Momentary 

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 
2 Corinthians 4:17 

Recommended Reading 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

The apostle Paul never wrote his autobiography, but he came close in 2 Corinthians. Some in Corinth had bitterly criticized him, and the Church was divided. Paul had conflicts on the outside and fears within (2 Corinthians 7:5). In writing 2 Corinthians, he opened his heart, shared his struggles, and sought to win the support of the Church. In the process, he showed us how to manage our own struggles, writing: “Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:16-17, NIV).

Our problems seem huge to us. They can overwhelm our emotions and violate our peace. But from God’s perspective—these are biblical words—they are “light and momentary” when compared to all God is doing for us now and will do for us in the future.

Your problems are temporary, but God’s promises are eternal. His promises will outlive your problems and carry you to heaven, where there are no problems, no pain, no death, no tears.

When you read this entire chapter, you discover that his troubles were certainly not light. But Paul understood that in comparison to eternity, they were light and momentary. So is my disease.
Ed Dobson