Catechism: The Bible And SufferingSample

This week we've focused on shifting our perspective by considering our momentary sorrows in comparison with the eternal, ultimate joy of God's presence.

Although the glory that God promises you is almost beyond description, you probably experience this kind of shift in perspective every day.

As a student, you choose to study rather than binge-watch your favorite shows.

As an athlete, you choose to endure the pain of training and not give in to empty calories and late-night parties.

As a friend, you have hard conversations when you see your friend’s choices are dangerous.

Why would you deny yourself or deliberately choose something painful today other than because you’re expecting something better in the future?

When we’re going through hard times, there are a million ways we can distract ourselves. We numb ourselves with social media, alcohol, work, unhealthy relationships, television. But the thing is, those paths don't lead to freedom and accomplishment. They just make the problem worse.

In today's passage, we are reminded that on one side of the scale are our troubles that will end, and on the other side is a glory that "vastly outweighs" them and will last forever.

So the challenge for us today and every day is which side of the scale will we focus on? When we focus on an image inches away, it fills our vision so we can’t see anything else. But when we intentionally focus on an image in the distance, suddenly it grows sharp, and the closer image grows blurry.

Will you allow today's pain to overwhelm you, or will you choose to trust that the power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to you? Will you be overwhelmed by the partial truth of today’s pain, or will you allow yourself to remember the bigger picture, which includes how God is working in you and in the world?

Even if we choose poorly and give in to the temptation to indulge our desires or artificially numb the pain, God's promise of mercy and forgiveness are clear.

As you read the passage from Revelation, pause long enough to consider precisely what it would mean to you to experience eternity without death, sorrow, grief, and pain. Let the sheer richness of this promise invade your spirit and strengthen your hope.

• What is an example of this shift in perspective that you have experienced in your own life? What made your ultimate goal worthy of the “price” you paid?
• What helps you to focus on God’s ultimate glory rather than your circumstances? Praying, talking to friends, journaling, worship, or something else?