“We don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen.” 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NLT)
If your focus is shortsighted and you’re only thinking about your current difficulties or pain, then it’s only natural to want to give up.
But if you look at things from an eternal perspective, then you’ll be able to keep going, no matter what happens.
“That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NLT).
This passage gives us four reasons to stay strong emotionally and never give up.
We never give up, because “our spirits are being renewed every day.” We wouldn't dream of going a whole week without food, but some people don't open their Bibles for an entire week. That's depriving your soul of the most essential nourishment it needs! If you want to renew your spirit every day, then get into God's Word.
We never give up, because “our present troubles are small and won’t last very long.” Problems don’t come to stay; they come to pass. Even if we have problems that last our entire lives, they would be miniscule compared to the trillions of years we're going to spend in heaven. Know this: Problems on earth are temporary, and God has long-range plans for you.
We never give up, because we know our problems will “produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” God is using everything in your life—even the hard stuff—to build your character for eternity. Romans 8:28 says, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (NIV).
We never give up, because we “fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen.” When you focus on things that last forever, you’re able to finish the race because you have long-term thinking. Your attention is fixed on eternity.
So, what are you focused on today? Instead of looking at your problems, start looking at Jesus again. And don’t give up!
Describe how you feel when you compare your current troubles to the trillions of years you’re going to spend in eternity.
What are other spiritual disciplines, besides studying the Bible, that can help you stay focused on eternity?
Hebrews 12:2 says, “Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne” (NLT). What was the joy set before Jesus that helped him endure?
If you’ve never invited Jesus into your heart, I want you to have that opportunity now.
Tell God you trust his promise of salvation through Jesus by praying this prayer:
“Dear God, you have promised that if I trust in Jesus, I will be saved—not by my works, but by your grace alone. I choose to believe in Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I confess my sins and ask that you forgive me, and I surrender my life to you.
“Thank you for the assurance that my salvation is not based on my feelings but on your unchanging truth. I trust in your promise, knowing that you cannot lie. I rest in the certainty of your love and the gift of eternal life.
“Today, I commit every part of my life to you. Guide me, lead me, and help me to follow Jesus in faith and obedience. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”
If you just prayed to accept Jesus, please email me at and let me know. I’d like to send you some free materials to help you start your journey with Jesus.
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