I’ve often mentioned this in writing, and even more in person with those whom I love. But too often, this thought runs across my mind daily as I wrestle with my own salvation with fear and trembling. It’s this verse in the Bible that reads, “ I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18)
I see this clearly each day as negative thoughts race through my mind, as doubts and insecurities arise, and even more so as I confess my love to Christ and follow up with a choice He would not like me to make. The present suffering is this: We are all imperfect people who have strayed—not once, but for an entire existence—away from the Lord. Does that make us evil? In part, yes and no. But what that tells me is that we are redeemable, because if God did not have a plan to reveal His future glory, then the present wouldn’t be worth suffering through.
There were times I tried to run from the Lord due to my lack of understanding and simply not wanting to suffer. Even writing this down is still a hard concept to swallow, because sometimes it feels like the present will overcome us. It will even cause us to succumb to defeat. But that is not true. And we must speak the truth in order to endure.
The truth is God is still at work. God is still in control. And, as cliché as it sounds, even if we don’t understand His plan fully, He has one that is working for our good.
I am reminded of this plan through His own words in John 10:10: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” This life isn’t the one we are currently experiencing, though at times this can be good but one where we get to dwell with Him forever: gold-painted roads, no crying or worrying, great food, and worship without time limits. It is the everlasting joy, laughter, and peace that surpasses all understanding, with the Lord, God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, forever.
Prayer:
I pray today that you get to sit with suffering, and that it may strengthen you to lean into God, not run and hide. May shame and doubt be removed as you meditate on the Word of God, and may the work of Christ transform you to behold all that God is and the image of you whom He calls Sons and Daughters. I pray for a hope that is everlasting and a peace that surpasses what you cannot see. May your eyes be open to heaven, and your heart be attuned to His love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
