As March draws to a close and we step into the last week of the month, it’s an opportune time to reflect on a perspective that can significantly alter our view of life and its challenges. 2 Corinthians 4:18 offers such a perspective: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
The Temporary vs. The Eternal
Paul’s words in this verse come as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of our current experiences compared to the eternal realities of God’s kingdom. In a world where so much emphasis is placed on the material and the immediate, this verse calls us to shift our focus. It reminds us that our current troubles and joys, successes and failures, are but fleeting moments in the grand scheme of God’s eternal plan.
The Challenge of Focusing on the Unseen
Focusing on the unseen and eternal is challenging because it goes against our natural inclinations. We are wired to respond to the immediate and the tangible. The unseen and eternal often seem abstract and distant. However, as believers, we are called to live by faith, not by sight. This means trusting in God’s promises and his character, even when we cannot see the immediate evidence of his work in our lives or in the world around us.
The Impact of an Eternal Perspective
Adopting an eternal perspective changes how we view everything – our values, our decisions, our goals, and our reactions to life’s ups and downs. When we focus on the eternal, we find that our priorities begin to align more with God’s priorities. We become less consumed with material success and more concerned with spiritual growth and the impact we can have on others for the kingdom of God.
Living in Light of Eternity
Living in light of eternity doesn’t mean neglecting our present responsibilities or ignoring the joys and sorrows of this life. Rather, it means viewing them through the lens of eternity. It is about finding a balance where we engage fully with the present while holding onto the truth that this life is not all there is. Our hope, our ultimate destination, lies beyond this life.
This perspective gives us a profound sense of purpose and direction. It helps us to persevere through trials, knowing that they are producing in us an eternal weight of glory. It also tempers our triumphs, reminding us that our ultimate reward is not in this life but in the life to come.
As we navigate the uncertainties and challenges of this life, let us hold onto the truth of 2 Corinthians 4:18. May we be people who live not just for the moment but for eternity, investing our time, talents, and resources in what is lasting. Let the hope of eternity guide our decisions, shape our priorities, and give us a peace that transcends the ups and downs of this life.
A Prayer for Eternal Perspective
Heavenly Father, help us to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. Remind us daily that the troubles of this life are temporary, but Your kingdom is eternal. Give us the faith to trust in Your promises and the courage to live for what is lasting. May our lives reflect the hope and joy of Your eternal kingdom, and may we be a light to those around us, pointing them to the eternal hope we have in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Leave a Reply