Our Daily Bread: Unshakableنموونە

Still Hopeful

When this earthly tent we live in is taken down . . . we will have a house in heaven. -2 Corinthians 5:1

My doctor’s words slugged me in the gut. It seemed that ongoing pain management for my back might be the only treatment he could provide. Overwhelmed by grief, I prayed silently.

Apologizing, he handed me a tissue. “Did you expect a different outcome?”

I shrugged. “God will keep carrying me through,” I said. “I’m just not ready to give up hoping for an end to my pain.”

“After we get you through the next procedure,” he said, “we’ll talk to another specialist.”

On our way home, my husband and I processed our frustrations. Though neither of us wanted the rest of our lives restricted by chronic pain, our hope wasn’t limited to this side of eternity.

The apostle Paul compared our bodies to temporal tents (2 Corinthians 5:1). Though we’re susceptible to physical injuries, sickness, and aging, God promises we’ll be resurrected and given new bodies like Christ (vv. 2–4; Philippians 3:21).

The Holy Spirit, who dwells in all believers, guarantees our eternal life (v. 5). Even as we face challenges, the Spirit gives us the courage to endure despite our ailments and the ability to please God in this life and when we’re with Him in heaven (vv. 6–10).

Facing physical afflictions can cause us to sink into despair. But our faithful Father provides what we need to walk by faith.

He helps us thrive in all circumstances, refreshed by His love and still hopeful.

Xochitl E. Dixon

How can the promise of a new body help us endure the pains we experience in our earthly bodies? How can you encourage others?

Precious Father, thank You for blessing me with resilient faith as I wait for my resurrected body.