No Comparison
Romans 8:18 ESV
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
First, our present-day sufferings or afflictions cannot be compared to 1st century AD. They were under constant threat of another conquering nation coming in and either killing them or changing their lives, and not for the better. Christianity was growing but still faced horrible opposition. Food was scarce, work was scarce, and famine was always looming over them.
For the early Christians, they knew that their message would be received by many but opposed by many as well. Was it worth it? The early disciples of Jesus thought so and they were willing to die in order to further the Gospel.
For us, these times may be hard, but we are blessed beyond measure. If you could visit third world countries and see what they have to go through on a daily basis, you would see what I mean. Still the things that we do suffer in this part of the world and in our personal lives are not diminished, they are real, but can they be compared to the blessings of God, the peace of God and the promises of God that we know are ours?
Prayer:
Lord, You are everything to us, Provider, Conquering King, Savior, Lord, the one that loves us with unconditional love. You provide what we need and when we need it. The things that plague us or haunt us or bring us troubles, will never diminish those things Lord. We stand in faith in You. In Your name Lord Jesus, Amen!