In 2 Corinthians 4:7ff, the apostle Paul speaks about the hope of God’s grace extending to more and more people. This is nothing less than the postmillennial hope; or to put it another way, confidence in the cause of heaven to prevail because where adversity is strong, the truth is stronger still! We believe that the future is bright for God’s people on the basis of God’s promises. But what about external suffering in the world that goes on to the very end? Nowhere does the Bible promise an end to death until all the other enemies are placed under the feet of Jesus (1 Cor. 15). The apostle Paul emphasizes where our focus must be in days of adversity—on inward growth.

Inner renewal is the seed of outward growth. Moreover, inner renewal is a better ministry of the Spirit. Instead of looking at your suffering as a winter tree, give thanks for the inner life within, which you know because of Christ!

A perfect modern-day example is that of Joni Eareckson Tada, who was paralyzed in body, but within there is life. The body is important, but the emphasis is on the inner life.

The installment of God’s Spirit working within ensures the ultimate working of Him without. Inward growth is the focus, the seed, and the encouragement we need about our future.

Lastly, I would challenge those who think similar to me about the future, that we may have all the hope for the future, and yet be so pessimistic in the present. Indeed, we should be pessimistic about man’s ability, but not God’s ability, now or in the future. Our struggle is often in the present being so negative about life. I find it more difficult to be optimistic about the present days, than I do about the future. Nonetheless, both are important. God forgive us for always looking for the worst in our every day, and not expecting that God can and will do things in our life today from the inside out. Let that begin by giving us glasses of hope not just for the long-haul, but for the everyday walk with God.