2 Corinthians 4:13-18

It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak, 14 because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you to himself. 15 All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.

16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. - 2 Corinthians 4:13-18

Dear Jesus,

It's sometimes overwhelming for me to face the outward wasting away of my life along with all those I love. So many people who were my rock have already passed over to be with you. And my own body reminds me every day that it's not going to last forever here on earth. That's why these verses are a constant friend. They remind me that you have saved my soul and that you will restore my body on the last day. I cannot see it. I'm not yet experiencing it, but the thought gives me great comfort. I'd much rather think about the restoration to come than the degradation that is happening. I love the hope it brings. I never have deserved such grace but you have lovingly given it to me. When you see me getting down about my losses, come to me by your Holy Spirit and use these words to strengthen my faith in you and all you have in store for me.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

The gospel, about our final restoration, dwarfs all of our suffering if we will only let it.