What Is Seen Is Transitory

St. Paul, author of this book in the Bible and many others, was able to minister so

optimistically in his settled conviction that ‘what is seen’ is ‘temporary.’ Paul looks

beyond to the faithfulness of God and remains confident that God’s Spirit will transform

the immature and ultimately bring glory. Our circumstances may change; God does not.

As human beings, we are subject to discouragement, particularly as caretakers. Can we

keep our eyes on the Lord and not the problems? While this challenge might be

ongoing, with faith we can hold onto the unseen, which is eternal.

The Bible contains many helpful Scriptures to encourage us to keep our eyes on

the Lord. Here are two of them that are addressed to Joshua, who is asked to take over

for Moses, certainly not an easy task. Deuteronomy 31:8, “It is the Lord who goes

before you; He will be with you and will never fail you or forsake you. So do not fear or

be dismayed.” Joshua 1:9, “I command you; be strong and steadfast! Do not fear nor

be dismayed, for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go.” These promises are

for us too!

So, it seems to follow the Lord, we try to be strong and steadfast. How many

times though are we the opposite of that and yet, as we are in a relationship with our

God, we can trust God’s love will carry us each necessary step for whatever uncertainty

is ahead. God’s promises and care for us are all true. We are given consolation in

Psalm 55:18-19, 23, “At dusk, dawn, and noon I will grieve and complain, and my

prayer will be heard. He will redeem my soul in peace from those who war against me,

though there are many who oppose me.” v23, “Cast your care upon the Lord, who will

give you support. He will never allow the righteous to stumble.”

David, the author of Psalm 55, shared his dismay at the betrayal of a close friend

and could not come to grips with the fact that a friend turned against him. Yet despite

this terrible experience, David remains confident that the Lord will sustain him and so

casts his care on God, v16-23.

We desire to see how temporary each situation is, as we do our best to live in

unity and hope. Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in

believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Let us live in

hope as we are renewed in God’s love this Lent, as we look not to what is seen but to

what is unseen!