I have heard a great deal lately about the sad condition and state of things, especially concerning the lack of morality as designed by our God. All around us sin reigns as supreme in the hearts of men!

2 Corinthians 4:3-4 “But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, 4 whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.”

However, this cannot be to our detriment! Our state was created by faith in God through Christ Jesus and His word.

2 Corinthians 4:6 “For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

The pressures of the world should only refine and purify us in the service of the Lord.

2 Corinthians 4:8-11 “We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed-- 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.”

Knowing that apart from the world, God will raise us in the end with Christ. Since this spirit of faith rules our existence, we have thanksgiving instead of terror, hope instead of dread, and joy instead of despair.

2 Corinthians 4:16 “ Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day .”

As the world around us grows darker, it is not the time for us to grow dim with it. Instead, it is the opportunity for us, His children, to shine brightest.

1 Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord .”

The world may be down, but we are never out ; there may be great pressure, but we are never crushed , because we are renewing our minds day by day to that perfect will of God ( Romans 12:1-2 ) and living to life eternal.

 

Give Thanks to God , Who Caused Light to Shine in Your Heart Through the Gospel !