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
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When I was in college, barely 19 years old, a friend and I decided that we would alternate choosing Bible verses for us to memorize over the course of one week. After the week, we’d each choose another.
The very first verse I chose was II Corinthians 4:18, “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.”
Little did I know that 15 years later, I’d see my primary role in the world to be inspiring and helping people live this out through the pursuit of minimalism.
Likewise, little did I know at the time, the full context of this verse written by Paul. Because when you look closer at Paul’s train of thought, you see added importance to this verse and important exhortation.
This verse, written by Paul during a time of persecution, is sandwiched right between two very important thoughts.
Prior to it, Paul is talking about their ministry of sharing Christ with others. He says, “I believe; therefore I have spoken.” In verse II Corinthians 4:15 he tells us why has spoken, “All this is for your benefit.”
Paul is focused on his ministry for the benefit of the Church and unbelievers! Therefore, he writes, because of this, “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.”
We refuse to get sidetracked by the real, but temporary, trials of this world. Likewise, we refuse to allow our attention to be captivated by the temporal pleasures and material successes of this world. Both will fade away—only the kingdom of God will remain.
We fix our eyes on the things of God because others are counting on us to do so!
But immediately after writing this verse, he makes mention of another important truth (just two paragraphs later). “We make it our goal to please him,” he says. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” —II Corinthians 5:10
Look at that. We fix our eyes on the things of God not just because others are counting on us to do so. But also because of our personal responsibility to the Lord. We will each be judged individually for the work we did for Him—keeping our eyes fixed on what is unseen allows us to better please him.
This, this is why we remain vigilant and disciplined to see beyond the trials and the trappings of this world. We keep our focus on Jesus for the sake of others—and for the sake of ourselves.
What steps can you take today to fix your eyes on what is unseen?
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Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the incredible truth that there is more to life than the things we see! This reality inspires us to share your gospel with others and motivates us to live a life pleasing to you. Help me today, and tomorrow, to keep my eyes fixed on what is unseen.