2 Corinthians 4 - 10.16.26

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:13 - 18

13 It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak, 14 because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you to himself. 15 All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.

16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Observation:

There are so many nuggets of truth in these verses.

• When you believe, you speak out and share it. People naturally share their opinions. How much more should we be sharing the wonderful truth we have. 

• The one who raised Jesus from the dead will also raise us up and present us to him. 

• As grace reaches more and more people, thanksgiving will overflow bringing God glory.

• We can be encouraged that even though our physical body wastes away, we can be renewed inwardly in our spirit each day.

• Eternal glory comes from the troubles we are experiencing.

• We need to fix our eyes on the unseen, the eternal.  The reward that awaits in Heaven because Jesus paid the price for our sin.

Application: 

I need to fix my eyes on Jesus and all that Heaven holds.  May it be what guides the things I say and do.  I also want to speak out and share more about all God has done and that Jesus is coming again.  Troubles are a part of life.  I need to keep my mindset positive and look to Jesus knowing eternity does not compare with what I’m experiencing. In order for my inward body to be renewed I need to take action and allow God to do it.  That includes reading his word, praying and listening for Him to speak.

Prayer:

Father God,

Thank you for all you have created and done for us to be redeemed and live with you in eternity.  Jesus paid the ultimate price.  May my eyes be fixed on not what is seen, but instead on the unseen, the truth and promises you have given.  May my faith and words glorify you and cause other to know you.  When I can’t speak, may my actions shine your love.  I want to extend your grace.  Thank you that my spirit can be renewed each day.  That is an action I have to take. Remind me to do the things each day that restore my soul.

I want to always be an example of being grateful and thankful.

Every good thing comes from you and I will lack nothing.

Amen

- Cindy Howard