Romans 8:18
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
I don't know how you feel, but I absolutely love where I live. As I was growing up I heard many people say, "I can't wait until I get out of this hick town". Well I can't say that I have ever wanted to do that. I'm sure there where times I wanted to leave cause everyone was in my business, but I have come to find out that if my business is about the Gospel of Jesus and preaching the Word, then I'm fine.
In my wonderful home of Kimberly, Alabama we use many words. People say things like... backards, fixin' and aight... Well aren't you glad that God is a southerner also? Look at our scripture. Paul is telling us about the hardships in the Christian walk. He is sharing with us some of the things that many of our modern ministers will not share. He tells us that we will suffer in this life, and if we are heirs with Jesus Christ that we will suffer as He suffered.
We will go through times in our lives that hardships will come. Sufferings will be a part of our lives. Times of great peril will happen. Just because we are children of God that doesn't mean all things will be easy. It doesn't mean that our lives will never have difficulties. What is great is the fact that He will be with us. He will see us through. He will help us! And the sufferings will not be in any comparison to the glory of God.
I love how it says, "I reckon". Think of the old Christian farmer. He's suffered throughout this year because a lack of rain. His crops are withered and pocketbook dusty. He looks out at the garden, looks at his wife, glances at his children and says through faith... "I reckon God will take care of us".
The one in the altar who is weeping and praying about the brokenness of their heart suddenly looks up at you with a peace and contentment. You look at them as ask, "Are you gonna be alright?" And they answer, "I reckon". You may think they have second guessed God but you are wrong. We "reckon" the sufferings of this present time can't be compared to the glory which shall be revealed.
I reckon, do you?
