For We Walk By Faith, Not By Sight
During Paul’s time, it was almost impossible to preach the gospel without encountering spirited persecutions from entrenched religious, social and political elements. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, Paul recounted his resume of suffering:
whipped with 39 lashes (5 different times)
beaten with rods (3 different times)
pummeled with stones (1 time)
shipwrecked (3 times)
adrift at sea (one night, one day)
danger from rivers
danger from robbers
danger from his own people
danger from Gentiles
danger in the city
danger in the wilderness
danger at sea
danger from false brothers
toil and hardship
sleepless nights (many)
hungry and thirsty (often)
cold and exposed
the pressure of anxiety for all the churches (daily)
However, Paul professed that despite his sufferings, he would remain in good courage and good cheer although there were countless moments when he vacillated between departing to be with God or to continue in his apostolic work. Central to Paul’s life and philosophy is to walk by faith, not by sight. The distinct feature of a life lived out in obedience and hope (faith) despite dire circumstances is perpetual peace and good courage. On the flip side, the distinctive of one who walks by sight, whose eyes are fixed on the cares and the pleasures of life is sorrow and darkness.
The Father’s reward is with those who make great sacrifices to please God in all that they do.
Notes : Extracted from Pastor Gabriel Chong Yew Chan’s sharing on 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 For we walk by faith, not by sight