Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Our Affliction Is For Only A Moment (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)

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

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You know these words after a long day are just the right words I need. It's a reminder that despite how rough or tough the day may have been through the attacks the enemy that the glory and riches waiting in heaven far out weigh the suffering. Awesome isn't to know that one sweet day all brothers and sisters in Christ will be spending eternity with our Lord and Savior in our home in heaven. I get excited thinking about what it will be like to see Jesus face to face. Then as He promised the streets of gold and the many mansions. No more pain, suffering, mourning, or foolish disbelief. Instead we be spending eternity praising God.

In verse 18 it talks about how we as Christians look not at things which are seen for they are temporal(temporary). Instead we focus on things which on not seen which are eternal, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. He has always been and always will be. I heard in one of my classes last week someone ask if God created man, then who created God. Sadly I didn't get the opportunity to talk to her,but folks so many people in this world can't grasp that God is eternal. God has always existed and will always be regardless if they believe or not. What saddens my heart is if they choose not to believe they will end up in hell. I know some people would say you should put it that way . They would say I'm putting it harsh. The thing is, it is the truth. As it is written Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life and none may come to the Father except through me( John 14:6 ).

Friends I encourage you reach out to someone who doesn't know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Be the person who plants that seed in their life. Don't be afraid to tell them cause you might offend them or it might not be the cool thing to do. Do it because it is the difference of where they will spend eternity. There are many ways to share your faith,but I've found the most profound and impacting way is to be a living testimony. Show this world what a real Christian is. Yes we makes mistakes( Romans 3:23 ),but its not about perfect its about conforming our lives( Romans 12:1-2 ) to being more like Christ everyday.

For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him ? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !


God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><

No comments: