Bible Chapter: II Corinthians 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    We will not lose heart.  When we go through very difficult times we will persevere because we can see beyond this point of life to what comes next.  When we can keep the eternal perspective in mind we will see that what we experience in life is not enough to cause us to give up on serving the Lord because eternity is going to be amazing.
    The enemy is blinding the hearts and minds of people so they can’t see eternity.  They only see the current mess we are in.  He is blinding them to the truth and the awesome promises Jesus gave regarding eternity.  The truth is that we, simply fragile clay pots, have an amazing power because of God in us.  We are pressed from all sides in a spiritual battle, but we are not crushed.  We are perplexed but not in despair.  The afflictions we face are light compared to the glory of eternity.  In Jesus we have hope.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Because of God’s promises we are more than conquerors through the power of Jesus.  It is easy to get tired. It is easy to say life is getting more challenging and wonder about being able to make it through.  But, God not only called us to “make it” through life, but He gives us the power to be victorious.  This victory must be measured by God’s standards which are so much higher than what the world has to offer.  In this chapter Paul talks about trials and difficulties.  He doesn’t deny them but shows how they strengthen us.  I must fix my eyes on what is not seen, that is on Jesus.  What I can see is temporary, Jesus is eternal.
    A great ending to the chapter:  17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 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.  NKJV

3.  How can I help someone?
    The challenges and difficulties faced in the world today are more difficult and complex.  People wonder what is going on.  This causes them to want to give up.  I can help people see that when they submit to and focus on Jesus, He will take them through and impact life. He will make life worth living.  The god of this world is death, Jesus is life and peace.