Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So, we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Cor. 4:16-18 (NIV)
For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. 2 Cor. 5:1-2 (NLT)
Heavenly Father, health challenges, body aches, and physical maladies will lead us either to more whining or deeper worship—sometimes both. First of all, thank you for the gift of lament. If we’re unwilling to grieve our losses, our compassion for others will be noticeably stunted.
Understandably, none of us welcome more brokenness and sickness, limitations and pain. But, rather than succumbing to self-pity, may our weaknesses tune our hearts to trust you, and to care for others in their struggles. Be Father of mercy and God of all comfort to us, and through us to others.
An eternity of perfect health is looking better and better, Father. Our healing will be complete, and never again will we experience sickness and pain in any form. No more cancer or flu, joint replacements or even runny noses; no more addictions or heart disease; no more memory loss or even hiccups. Hallelujah, and hasten the Day!
We’re grateful that Jesus secured, not only the perfection of our spirits, but also the resurrection of our bodies. Even as Jesus was raised from the dead, we too will be raised. We groan now, but will be whole forever. These “light and momentary troubles” are incredibly inconvenient and bothersome, but our rejoicing will be loud and eternal.
