[This focus was originally sent 03/10/1999 (edited some with passages changed to ESV 03/15/2009)]
I think a good conversation starter would be to wear a button with the words “COMPARED TO WHAT?” in big bold letters. Such an expression could either lead to a negative or a positive conversation since it has to do with outlook. Someone could say, “This is great!” only to hear the response, “Ya? Compared to what?” Someone else might say “This is awful!” to which another could respond, “Compared to what? You don’t know what awful is!” How we see something is often in relation to that to which it is compared. It seems, in just about any given situation, we can generally find something either worse or better for which to make the comparison. So, what do we choose? To what do we make our comparisons? And what impact do those comparisons have on our life?
Paul had a marvelous way of bolstering his faith and joy in the way he chose to make such comparisons. His missionary journeys were far from being viewed as a “Carnival Cruise” in the Mediterranean. And as a guest speaker in various cities, the reception he received (even at times by those he had once taught) was not always very cordial. [Consider 2 Corinthians 11:23-29 for a description of how Paul was sometimes treated.]
Note how Paul said, “COMPARED TO WHAT?”
“(18) For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18 ESV)
And. . .
“(16) So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. (17) For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, (18) as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 ESV)
Compared to the assurance of our salvation in Christ and the eternity that awaits us, may we press onward and upward with resilient faith!
Have a great day KNOWING WHAT WE GAIN IN CHRIST FAR OUTWEIGHS ALL ELSE!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
