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Day 11: Future Glory – Living in Hope
As Paul transitions to Romans 8:18, he offers one of the most comforting and hope-filled promises in Scripture: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” This verse reminds us that, while we may experience hardship, pain, and suffering in this life, the future that awaits us as believers is beyond anything we can imagine. Paul calls this the “future glory”—the eternal reward and inheritance promised to those who are in Christ.
The Reality of Suffering
In this world, suffering is inevitable. We experience pain in many forms—physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual. Even as followers of Christ, we are not immune to the trials and struggles that come with living in a fallen world. Paul himself was no stranger to suffering. He faced persecution, imprisonment, and even the threat of death. Yet, in Romans 8:18, he confidently declares that the sufferings of this present time pale in comparison to the future glory we will experience.
This truth doesn’t diminish our pain, but it puts it in perspective. Paul is reminding us that whatever suffering we face now is temporary, and it cannot compare to the eternal joy and peace that will be revealed in the life to come. Knowing this allows us to endure suffering with hope, knowing that it is not the final chapter.
The Glory to Come
Paul speaks of a “glory that will be revealed in us.” What is this future glory? It is the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan—the time when we will be fully transformed, made perfect in Christ, and live eternally in the presence of God. This future glory includes:
- Resurrection and Transformation: Just as Christ was raised from the dead, we too will experience resurrection. Our bodies, which are subject to decay and suffering now, will be transformed into glorified bodies (Philippians 3:21). We will be freed from sin, death, and all the limitations of this present life.
- Eternal Life in God’s Presence: Our future glory includes dwelling with God forever, in perfect communion and fellowship with Him. Revelation 21:3-4 describes this glorious future: “God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them… He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
- A New Heaven and New Earth: The future glory extends beyond personal transformation; it involves the renewal of all creation. Paul explains in Romans 8:19-22 that all of creation eagerly awaits the time when it will be set free from its current bondage to decay. God’s plan is to restore not just individuals, but the entire universe.
Eager Expectation and Hope
In Romans 8:19, Paul says that creation is “waiting in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.” This imagery of eager expectation captures the sense of anticipation that should characterize our lives as believers. We live with hope, looking forward to the day when Christ returns and makes all things new.
This hope is not wishful thinking; it’s a confident assurance based on God’s promises. Because of what Christ has already accomplished through His death and resurrection, we know that the future glory is certain. This hope enables us to endure suffering, hardship, and uncertainty, trusting that God is faithful to fulfill His promises.
Groaning and Waiting
While we wait for this future glory, Paul acknowledges that both creation and we ourselves “groan inwardly” (Romans 8:22-23). These groans reflect the tension we feel between the “already” of Christ’s work on the cross and the “not yet” of its full consummation. We long for the day when pain, suffering, and sin will be no more, and we will experience the fullness of God’s kingdom.
Yet, even in the waiting, we are not alone. Romans 8:26 tells us that the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness, even interceding for us with “wordless groans.” The Spirit is our companion in the journey, strengthening us as we look forward to the future glory.
Living in Light of Future Glory
How does knowing about the future glory shape the way we live today? First, it gives us a sense of perspective. Our present sufferings, while real, are temporary and cannot compare to the eternal joy that awaits us. This perspective allows us to endure hardships with hope, knowing that God is working all things for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).
Second, it motivates us to live in a way that reflects our hope. We live with purpose, not just for this life, but for the life to come. This includes sharing the good news of Christ with others, living in holiness, and investing in things that have eternal significance. As 2 Corinthians 4:17 reminds us, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
How This Applies to Us Today
If you are going through a season of suffering or hardship, take heart. The struggles you face today, though painful, are not permanent. There is a future glory awaiting you, and it is far greater than anything you can imagine. Let this truth strengthen and encourage you to persevere, knowing that your hope is secure in Christ.
At the same time, reflect on how this future hope should influence your daily life. Are you living with a sense of eager expectation for Christ’s return? Are you investing your time, energy, and resources in things that have eternal value?
Reflection Questions:
- How does the promise of future glory change the way you view your present sufferings?
- In what ways can you live with a greater sense of hope and eager expectation for Christ’s return?
- Are there areas in your life where you’ve been focused more on temporary, earthly concerns than on eternal priorities? How can you shift your perspective to align with the hope of future glory?
Final Thought
The promise of future glory gives us hope, strength, and purpose as we navigate the challenges of this life. While we may groan and long for the fullness of God’s kingdom, we can live with confidence, knowing that the future glory far outweighs the present suffering. As we continue our journey through Romans, let’s fix our eyes on the eternal hope we have in Christ, allowing it to shape the way we live, love, and endure.