For I consider that our present sufferings cannot even be compared to the glory that will be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18)
Many years ago Dani was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. More recently she underwent another MRI scan and the doctor called to discuss the results. There was no sign of the disease as recorded on previous tests. The mailed copy of the report confirmed this, and we were torn between celebration and confusion over the continuing symptoms.
About three days later, a second report arrived. The first result applied to the neck and the second to the brain, where the disease showed itself plainly. I was ecstatic with the first diagnosis, and grieved by the second.
I’m a chameleon that changes moods according to the events in my life. God tries to mature my fickleness. “Don’t change colors to blend with the pleasures or the problems of the world. Adapt to the blessedness you have for eternity.”
But it’s difficult to adapt to blessedness while I’m down here fighting my way through the jungle. What I need is a bird’s eye view of my situation. Looking down on my tiny life, I comprehend trials in the context of paradise. God doesn’t cause pain, he uses it for refinement, and he limits it to but a few of the years on my unending timeline. All that said, I still don’t like suffering now, but I will later because of the gains it brings.
If I’ve sworn allegiance to Jesus, then glory is the backdrop for my life. It is my unchanging reality. I need to keep my attitude locked on the razzle-dazzle-gold of eternity.
Prayer: Everlasting Father, help me adapt my mood to forever with you.