For I consider that the sufferings of this
present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to
us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of
God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of
him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from
its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children
of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the
pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who
have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for
adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved.
Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we
hope for what we do not see, we await for it with patience. (Romans 8:18-25 ESV).
However, Paul is being realistic.
Whether it’s trying to make sense of ourselves, fighting off sin, struggling in
relationship, bearing wounds of brokenness, being limited by health, enduring
the pain of depression or a host of other situations, suffering is real for
Christians as well as non-Christians, no matter your age.
Paul wants us to gain perspective, so he
invites us to compare our suffering to the glory that will be revealed in us.
But Paul does not define that glory as life without adversity, as if we won’t
have health issues or financial needs or marital struggles or the like. Our
goal is not so much to beat suffering as it is to live fully and completely as
children of God.
God reminds us that we have his
Spirit—always. And the Spirit will help us in all situations, interceding for
us even if we struggle to pray. Even in the worst of times, we are not alone. I
find great comfort in that. When I suffer, I need that reminder. I may want an
easier life, but what I need most is to know that God is continually with me
and at work in me.
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