Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day . . . For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened . . . (2 Corinthians 4:16, 5:4a NIV)
I remember a line from a song, “life is hard, but God is good.” We all face physical, emotional or mental pain in life. Some suffer from depression, physical disabilities or anxiety. Our aging bodies betray us with the discovery of new aches and pains. Paul reminds us that our frail earthly bodies are wasting away and are temporary. When viewed from God’s eternal perspective, our life on this earth is rather short.
Although our bodies and minds are vulnerable to physical and mental problems, we are not to become discouraged. We have “this treasure in jars of clay”—the good news of salvation hidden inside the fragile human bodies of believers (2 Corinthians 4:7a). My aging body hurts from the ravages of arthritis, but the promise of eternal life with my Savior far outweighs this temporary pain. When I am short of money or feel lonely, I sometimes feel angry or sad. Jesus’ words in John encourage me to “take heart” because He has overcome the world.
In the last book of the Bible God gives His children a beautiful promise: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain for the old order of things has passed away . . . I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:4,5b).
Dear Father, Growing old and feeling sad are hard, but I look forward to spending eternity with You. Thank You for sending Jesus and for making everything new. Amen
© 2011 Diane E. Hussey
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1 comment:
Diane, all of us at one time or other feel sad, lonely, depressed and utterly alone. But Jesus said He has conquered the world. Believe Him. Happiness is just a prayer away. God bless you. E. Bonnie
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