Looking at the things that are eternal

“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.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.

Is my vision truly on the eternal things?

The key to not losing heart in the trials that come our way is to have our eyes fixed on that which is eternal. Then no matter how long a trial may last, we can say that it is short and light because we see that it is working a glory in us that will last forever.

It is good to test ourselves if our trials become heavy and seem difficult. Is my vision truly on the eternal things, or has it been turned to the things that are temporary, that which will pass away? Is to be saved from my own sin and nature and to partake of Jesus’ virtues my only desire?

Everything that comes my way has been planned perfectly by God for my salvation. These are the works that God planned beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10) Paul exhorts Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life.” 1 Timothy 6:12. God did not make a mistake when He allowed the trials to come our way; it is an opportunity for salvation!

It is written in Psalm 84:6-7 that “as they pass through the Valley of Tears, they make it a spring; the rain also covers it with pools. They go from victory to victory.” This is the testimony of Jesus’ disciples in everything that comes their way! The trials become opportunities for the life of Christ to radiate from them – this is what it is to look at the eternal things which are not seen! They become established in this life and go from victory to victory in all that comes their way.

This article was first published in BCC’s periodical Hidden Treasures in November 2016.
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