Bible Reading Blog
“We Do Not Lose Heart”
Categories: Congregational Bible ReadingBIBLE READING: 2 Corinthians 4-5
“So, we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4.16)
As we age, our bodies don’t work or look like they used to. Wrinkles, disease, along with general aches and pains make us keenly aware these bodies won’t last. These limitations make it easy to get discouraged and become negative about life.
As strong as Paul may appear at times, he was no stranger to these infirmities. Paul had moments of weakness, where he despaired of life itself (2 Corinthians 1.8-9). He describes our bodies as “jars of clay” that are “afflicted… perplexed… persecuted… and struck down” (2 Corinthians 4.7-9). This is not a uniquely Christian struggle. Everyone exists in a form that is temporary and passing away. But instead of complaining about the human condition, Paul embraces the weakness of his body as a reminder of God’s power over our true need: to be unburdened and at rest (2 Corinthians 5.2-5)
God promises this to believers who are in Christ (2 Corinthians 4.14; 1 Corinthians 15.12-20; 1 Thessalonians 4.14). Every human being has moments of insufficiency and even despair. What sets believers apart is our hope in the resurrection and the conviction of action it produces. We believe God raised Jesus and will raise us up with him to life immortal and incorruptible (1 Peter 1.3-9).
We must not focus our attention on the struggle of our present form. Instead, we must daily renew our spirit with joy and hope as we walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5.7; Romans 12.1-2). It is true that some people are more naturally disposed to optimism. And for some, the circumstances of life are more difficult. But the good news about Jesus teaches us that regardless of what life presents, we can (and should) live with hope, purpose and vitality.
And so, we must not lose heart (2 Corinthians 4.1, 16). The gospel is good news for us as we groan and long for something better. We know this life will end as it does for everyone. But by faith we believe God will give us a better form (2 Corinthians 4.13-14, 17-18).
Let us always be of good courage as we live for Him (2 Corinthians 5.9). Let us be controlled by his love for us as we serve others, for his glory (2 Corinthians 5.11-15). Let us not set our minds on things of this life but invest ourselves in the development of our spirit, as God’s word changes us from one form of glory to the next.
“Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7.1)
