Focus on What God is Doing and Not the Trial
Key Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
In today's sermon, we delve into the profound message of focusing on God's work within us rather than the trials we face. 2 Corinthians 4:7-18 serves as the foundation for this exploration, reminding us of the treasure we hold within our earthly vessels and the resilience it provides in the face of adversity.
The Treasure Within
2 Corinthians 4:7 tells us, "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." This verse is a reminder that the divine gift within us is not of our own making but is a testament to God's power working through us. The responsibility lies in honoring this gift and not succumbing to arrogance or self-reliance.
Trials and Tribulations
The sermon emphasizes the paradox found in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: "We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed." These oxymorons illustrate the resilience provided by the divine treasure within us. When we understand and embrace this, we can withstand pressure without being crushed.
Understanding Perplexity
Perplexity, as described in the sermon, is a state of confusion often caused by difficult circumstances. Yet, as 1 Corinthians 14:33 reminds us, "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace." The trials we face are not meant to confuse but to reveal the strength and purpose God has placed within us.
The Purpose of Trials
Trials are necessary for the refinement of our faith. They are compared to friction that creates heat, revealing and refining the treasure within us. The sermon draws a parallel to the testing phases in education, where skipping grades without learning leads to failure. Similarly, skipping spiritual growth leads to unpreparedness for God's calling.
Embracing Our Identity in God
The sermon stresses the importance of recognizing our identity as sons and daughters of God. This identity is a gift, and understanding it allows us to face trials with confidence, knowing "the Father already made a way for me." This assurance is echoed in Romans 8:18, "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
Eternal Perspective
The sermon concludes by urging us to focus on the eternal rather than the temporary. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 highlights that our "light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." The challenges we face are temporary, but the glory and purpose God is working in us are eternal.
Call to Action
This message is a call to shift our focus from the trials to what God is doing in our lives. By embracing our identity in Him and trusting His process, we can navigate life's challenges with faith and resilience. The sermon encourages us to respond to trials with praise and trust, knowing that God is always working for our good, as promised in Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
In summary, let us remember that while trials are inevitable, they are not insurmountable. By focusing on God's work within us, we can emerge stronger, ready to fulfill the purpose He has set before us.