We Do Not Lose Heart!

We Do Not Lose Heart!

Isn’t it normal to grow weary and lose heart? In 2 Cor. 4:16-18 we read, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

What a life! I can continually receive new strength and energy to do what is good! The tribulations, temptations and situations that seemed to be so unpleasant or impossible, I now see as golden opportunities, that are light and but for a moment. This is possible, with the power of God!

This leads to an abundant life, as it is written in Matt. 5:41, “And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.” According to my human nature, I can go the first mile, because after all I want to do good; but the second mile is definitely too much for me. Enough is enough; now others should also pitch in, etc. I grow weary and reach the end of my rope. However, if I have surrendered myself completely to God, and have been crucified with Christ, and am finished with all that is great in the world, then I experience how God works in me, both to want to do it and to be able to do it. Suddenly I can say, “I’m happy to go the second mile too.” I do it voluntarily, because God works in me with power and joy. My own limitations are being shattered. This is a far cry from thinking everything is so difficult and that they are demanding that I do the impossible. I come to fellowship in the sufferings of Christ, and completely cease from tormenting myself with self-imposed sufferings.

What a glorious life! This will succeed and God will receive all honor for it.