Articles
Small Sacrifices
“For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17)
When we set out to achieve a goal of some sort, we tend to reach that goal through a series of small obstacles. Whether fitting in a wedding dress, training for a marathon, or even modifying our lifestyles, we will probably at some point justify the means by saying that we will make “small sacrifices” to gain the larger benefit that is the end. The practice is common, simple, and perfectly justifiable.
But, if we perform this reasoning with things as trivial as races and events, brethren, why do we have such a hard time accepting momentary trials in our spiritual walks? Consider the above Scripture and the man who uttered the sentiment. We are forced to look within ourselves and do some serious examining. In the same letter, Paul describes some of these “momentary, light afflictions” as shipwreck, stoning, starvation, and all other manner of physical plight and calamity (11:23-33). All of these tribulations Paul identifies as “small sacrifices.” The death that worked in his life was aimed toward manifesting the life of Christ. Elsewhere he states (after being stoned and left for dead at Lystra): “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” What an inspiring motivation!
Anything we go through, when seen with the eyes of faith (2Cor. 5:7), may be seen as a small price to pay no matter how perilous. The small sacrifices that we make here will be rewarded with an indescribable glory when the church is presented to Christ (Rom. 8:18). May we ever envisage the greatness of His sacrifice so that everything we go through will seem but minutia in perspective of that great grace.
