I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us. Romans 8:18 NABRE
Paul in the section of the letter to the Romans with the quoted verse is speaking about divine adoption. Those led by the Spirit received a divine adoption. We cry out “Abba, Father” and we are called children of God. But divine adoption does not mean we are led through a trouble free life of ease. Rather, it means following the path of the crucified Messiah through a world filled with trouble and pain. Suffering is an inescapable reality, it exists throughout all of creation. Paul challenges us to embrace trial, consent to suffering and we will move more closely to Christ. Suffering is a means that helps us die to self and surrender everything over to the Lord. Suffering has real redemptive significance in the saving design of God. We see in the quoted verse that Paul believes that the suffering of the present time, the suffering in our lives, the suffering we endure is nothing compared to the glory God is ready to reveal to us. The blessings we will receive are beyond anything we can imagine in our life. Even though the full glory we will receive has not been revealed Paul is convinced and wants to convince us that no amount of pain or grief now should deter us from pressing forward to receive God’s full glory. Besides, the Father wishes us to be more like Christ in His openness to the Father’s will and in suffering so we can share in His resurrection.
No matter the trial or suffering in our life, we should offer all we do to God, to do God’s will, to please God in any way we can. According to the promise we will be revealed in glory and find greater joy and life through God’s support and love.
Do you endure suffering in the name of the Lord? Are you able to see a future glory while suffering?
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