By Jason S (Connecting to Impact)
We all have situations in our lives that bring up the question of cost vs. worth. Nearly every day, there are big concerns and little ones; ones we weigh carefully and others we decide in split seconds. We don't want to be caught spinning our tires or wasting our time.
Sometimes we decide we've paid enough and walk away, but when we are walking away from something God spoke to us or led us into, we are guaranteed to miss out on something wonderful.
I like how the Amplified version puts Romans 8:28:
"We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose."
God gives us a part in all this. We aren't simply waiting around, but He partners with our labor in this work of restoration. That's restoration for ourselves and those around us.
We may be ready to bail, saying, "it's not worth it." Meanwhile, God is trying to get our attention to reassure us and tell us, "Just hold on. I know you can't see it now, but it will be worth it."
As we receive His strength, we can tenaciously hold to His word and promises by faith. His plans and purposes are being fulfilled, but the question becomes, where are we when they come into fulfillment?
Let's jump back a few verses in Romans 8. In verse 18 Paul says, "…I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us." That 'comparison' is what has gripped me lately.
I have seen in my life how God has come through over and over. There are miracles and powerful changes He has brought to me and my family. I can give testimony after testimony, and it all works together to shout even louder, "don't even compare this." The hardships and trials of the moment won't last, but the glory revealed in us is eternal victory and truth.
My eyes have to remain on him and that is what makes the difference. Reminds me of 2 Corinthians 4:16-18:
"Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal."
Those things you and I are questioning God about, they're producing glory. I have to be disciplined to keep my eyes focused on the unseen and move toward that promised land.
Do you struggle with this question of worth? What do you hear God saying today?
Jason is a guy who loves Jesus, his wife, and his kids. He's also the pastor of Breakthrough Church in Juneau, AK. You can check out his blog at EndlessImpact.com where the goal is to connect with others in a conversation about life, service, and faith while connecting to God who is true Impact.