Topic: A Paradox
Text: I Peter 4:3-11

What we behold in this present world is not what exactly we shall see in eternity. Earthly sensibilities often run contrary to heaven’s reality. Those who are wise are expected to have eternity in view in all their actions and decisions. You must do all things to the glory of God. The Bible says: “… That God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”

In all that you do, the glorification of God must be your goal. Whether you are in the choir in the Sunday School Department, or you are a Pastor, there must be only one thing paramount in your mind: that God might be glorified. You have a very good gauge, which is the glorification of God. Before you do anything, you must ask whether God will be glorified through it or not. This will serve as a guide in your decision-making process.

You must always remember that those who sow in tears reap in joy. Remember, also, that weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning (Psalms 30:5). Remember that it is special people that are called to become God’s partners. If God has chosen you, you must be ready to take both the pleasure and the pains of His service; the tears as well as the laughter; the weariness, the misunderstanding and the ingratitude of the people you are called to serve.

You have to always remember that the very men that He created crucified the One who made the heaven and the earth on the tree that He created. He wept at the garden of Gethsemane. The tears shed by our Saviour have granted us the joy of Salvation. Although there may be confusion, emptiness, darkness, sorrow and tears, but in the morning, there will be light, joy and victory. One day, we will arrive where there will be no more nights. We will get to the city of everlasting joy. Then all earthly sorrow will become an endless stream of joy.

Our pains will become pleasure; our present shame will become indescribable glory, while our earthly trials shall be turned to triumph. What a glorious day!

Memory Verse: I Peter 2:12 - “Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall beholds, glorify God in the day of visitation.”