Paul's greatest joy was hearing that those he shared the gospel with were remaining true to it even in difficult times. He said, "For now we live, if you stand firm in the Lord. How can we thank God for you in return for all the joy we experience before our God because of you." The joy he experienced was in direct connection to the reality of their faith.
What brings us joy? Is it the temporary rewards of this life or the lasting reality of faith? I often am distracted by the "accomplishments" of this life that amount to nothing! I often celebrate the insignificant and neglect what is really important.
Paul was able to celebrate in the midst of personal difficulty and the difficulties of those he loved. Not because of the happiness that they were experiencing, but rather because of the reality of their faith in the midst of difficulty.
True faith is revealed in trial.
No comments:
Post a Comment