"For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (KJV)
Afternoon Bible Study
Unfortunately, it is easy to look around and see the difficulties that surround us. Bills, work, challenges at home, health problems … they seem to be unending. In short, these daily issues can drive us to the point of worrying ourselves sick.
Worry was as much an issue for the Church in Corinth as it is for us in the twenty-first century. Paul's words to the Corinthians should be a light for us today, showing us how to look beyond what we can see with our eyes to what awaits us in Heaven.
God is always working on our behalf. Our human eyes will often paint a different picture. We can only see what's right in front of us. But if we look at where we have come from, the events of our past, we can see God's hand guiding us through the everyday situations that required us to trust Him.
When we take into account the faithfulness that God has shown throughout our lives, then our faith in Him should grow. Our lives then become a testament of what happens when we replace worry with an assurance that God is taking care of our needs.
The only things that will last forever are the things we do and say, the way we interact with those around us, how we encourage and help lead others to God's grace, and all that we do for the glory of God.
Afternoon Prayer
Heavenly Father, my mind is often flooded with worry as I look at the situations that are happening all around me. It's easy for me to forget that you have already provided for everything I need in life. Remind me of your faithfulness and teach me to trust you more every day. Let my worries be replaced with faith in you. In Jesus's name, amen.
