Incomparable glory

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. Romans 8:18

Patience is something we struggle with in our society; we want what we want, and we want it now. This runs contrary teaching throughout scripture. Peter and Paul agree about suffering comes before glory (I Peter 4:12-13). Suffering for the sake of Christ is a great teaches us dependence upon Christ; however, the good news is that the glory to come far outweighs any suffering we may endure. Paul encourages three times in this chapter: (1) the glory that will be revealed (vv. 18–25), (2) the help of the Holy Spirit (vv. 26–27), and (3) the fact that all things work together for good (vv. 28–30). Paul tells us that our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20); and, that this earthly life is but a moment in time in comparison with eternity. If we allow the difficulties of life to absorb our attention, they will effectively blot out the glory that awaits us. Our focus needs to be on things above (Colossians 3:2), spiritual concerns of eternal significance (2 Corinthians 4:18).