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
—
One of the most important verses that should guide our worldview and attention is II Corinthians 4:18.
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.
In a world that values wealth, fame, and status, it’s tempting to seek those things too and build a life designed to accumulate more of them.
Sometimes we fall into that temptation because the world gets a grip on our heart and we genuinely desire them. But sometimes it is tempting to pursue what is seen simply because it is seen—by others. And in a world that champions visible success, accumulating things that can be seen is the quickest way to gain status and attention.
But Paul reminds us that there is something better.
The glory accumulated from the things of this world is temporary and fleeting.
On the other hand, when we fix our eyes and attention on the things of God, we discover a glory that is eternal.
This eternal glory is worthy of the God who created us and saved us. This eternal glory is worthy of the one life we have to live and offer him. And this glory is so magnificent, it even outweighs the momentary troubles we will experience as we pursue it.
Is it easy to keep our eyes and minds focused on what is unseen? Absolutely not. Our world works overtime to capture our attention—in both big ways and small ways.
It requires constant intentionality, every day, to fix our gaze on the things and will of God’s kingdom. But the more we do, the easier it becomes as our perspective and priorities change.
—
Prayer
Heavenly Father, by your grace and through your Spirit, help me keep my eyes fixed on you and what is unseen. Reveal to me where I am too focused on this world and bring people into my life to help me. Amen.