For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. [2 Corinthians 4:17, NIV]
A large part of life is centered around anticipation. As such, the enjoyment in many of life's events are built on the fact that we have time to anticipate them. We look forward to vacations, sporting events, major events eagerly, running through our minds the fun, challenges and excitement they'll bring. These events even grow in value because of the amount of anticipation with which we look forward to them. While waiting for the event we willingly and gladly endure discomfort, stress, inconvenience, pain because we know the joy of the event will reward us with much more pleasure.
This is the role of hope in our Christian lives today, whereby we anticipate a greater reward with God. We anticipate a greater joy in Heaven. The height of our anticipation makes us not to worry about our light afflictions here on earth. We look forward to an eternal peace and salvation from all the troubles we may pass through during the night time. The Psalmist says, 'weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.' (Ps 30:5). He is declaring the comforting idea that our sorrows here on earth last for a short time and are nothing compared to the anticipated joy in heaven which lasts forever.
In 2 Corinthians 4:17, we are reminded that our light afflictions which is for a moment is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Those of us who weep now can dwell on hope instead of hopelessness and anticipation instead of sorrow. It may be nighttime in our hearts, but just ahead lies the dawn of endless joy in the morning.
Prayer: Dear God, please keep in my remembrance such anticipated joy and hope that will give me the strength to endure every nighttime in my life. Open my understanding to see what great things lie ahead of me, and for me to know that the present pain is temporary. I trust you Lord to bring me your joy here on earth and eternally in heaven, in Jesus name.
One-Year Daily Bible Reading Plan - Sept. 08 2010 - Ezekiel 37-39 (OT), 2 Timothy 1 (NT)
