Daily Devotional for Friday, October 9
The Paradox
“As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things,” 2 Corinthians 6:10.
Paradox: ”a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well-founded or true.” Life is often paradoxical, and humans are paradoxical creatures. Life is not one-dimensional and neither are we. It reminds me of the phrase, “You have to spend money to make money.” We all understand what that means; if you make no investment, you get no return.
Paul is teaching us here, and observation proves it, the Christian life is super paradoxical. Christians are beset by the same trials as any person, perhaps more; yet, our lives should be the most joyful of all. Suffering and joy are a paradox. If we dedicate ourselves to the service of God, we may never be rich; yet, we have riches beyond measure. Poverty and richness are a paradox. Paul goes on: death and life, deceit and truth, by honor and dishonor, and the list goes on.
How can we be poor and rich, and sorrowful and joyful at the same time? It is all about the future and eternity. If this is your best life now, then you are in deep trouble. If this life is all there is, what is the point? If you are not saved, then here and now is as good as it gets; your eternity will be far worse. On the other hand, for the believer eternity will be glorious and wonderful.
That is how we can be poor and rich, and sorrowful and joyful. It is because the future God promises is as real as if it were happening now. The key to making our paradoxical lives work is living in the present. It is your choice—choose wisely.
Just a Thought
To experience the sweet by and by,
we have to endure the often unbearable times here and now.
Wally Fry