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.
II Corinthians 4:16-18
These three verses contrast two views of the world.
One is external, momentary, and visible. It is deteriorating and ridden by affliction.
The other is internal, eternal, and unseen. It is constantly refreshed and full of glory.
Paul can see both of these perspectives. It’s not as though he’s unable to see his body or feel his affliction. The difference is that Paul has chosen to focus on the view that’s filled with glory.
This week, I will be meeting with my composition students to discuss their rough drafts. These meetings can be rushed, and when they’re done, I often wonder if I’ve shared with them everything I need to know.
It’s so much easier to address the afflictions I can see than engage with deeper invisible issues. Yet it’s this unseen dimension of each of my students that is most important and redemptive. I pray that God gives me the strength to focus on dimension of each student that is most important, to encourage them in the midst of visible affliction, and to call them to a discipleship that will never waste away.