The book of Romans in the Bible provides deep insight into the topic of suffering and how believers should view and respond to the inevitable trials and tribulations of this present life. Specifically, Romans 8:18 offers an eternal perspective on suffering that can greatly encourage and strengthen Christians amidst difficult circumstances.
Romans 8:18 states, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” This verse comes in the midst of Paul’s teaching about the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the hope of future glory for those who are in Christ. After discussing the destiny of believers as God’s children and heirs (8:14-17), Paul acknowledges that this present life involves suffering. The word “sufferings” refers to the troubles, hardships, and afflictions that Christians will face prior to the return of Christ.
Paul does not minimize or ignore the reality of suffering. He openly admits that followers of Christ will experience difficulties in this fallen world marred by sin. Suffering can take many forms – illness, injury, grief, persecution, poverty, disappointment, relationship issues, emotional pain, and more. Christians are not exempt from the human condition of hardship and distress.
However, Paul provides an eternal vantage point from which to view earthly suffering. Any pain believers endure now is “not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed.” Present afflictions are light and momentary compared to the infinite, everlasting glory and joy that awaits believers in heaven (2 Corinthians 4:17). No matter how severe the suffering may be, it will seem trifling in the light of heavenly glory.
What is this glorious hope? Scripture points to several key aspects of the glory to come:
- We will see God and be made like Christ (1 John 3:2). We will be free from sin and made perfect in righteousness and holiness.
- We will reign with Christ, sharing in His authority and splendor (2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 3:21).
- We will be reunited with loved ones in Christ and experience perfect relationships (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
- We will live in the magnificent New Heavens and New Earth in resurrection bodies and enjoy freedom from sickness, pain, and death (Revelation 21:1-5; 1 Corinthians 15:42-44).
- We will serve and worship God in His presence, with endless joy, fascination, and delight (Revelation 22:1-5).
The Bible describes heaven as a place of “pleasures forevermore” in God’s presence (Psalm 16:11). When Christ returns and ushers in the new creation, the glory will far outshine any temporal suffering. As Paul says, the present difficulties are “not worth comparing.”
This eternal perspective enables believers to endure hardship knowing that it is temporary and pale compared to eternal reward. Present trials are producing an eternal weight of glory for us (2 Corinthians 4:17). Suffering can be faced with patient endurance, hope, and trust in God’s good purposes.
How should Christians respond to suffering in light of Romans 8:18?
- We can take comfort knowing present sufferings are temporary and allowed by our sovereign God for good reasons.
- We can rejoice that trials are preparing us for greater glory and refining our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7; Romans 5:3-5).
- We can look beyond the visible, temporal world to the invisible, eternal realities that really matter.
- We can anchor our hope in the promises of heaven and Christ’s return.
- We can pray for strength, grace, and endurance to continue trusting God through the darkness.
- We can maintain joy and perspective in suffering by fixing our minds on eternity with Christ.
Romans 8:18 does not minimize human suffering but radically reframes it. Present afflictions cannot compare with the infinite bliss and reward stored up for God’s children. An eternal perspective infuses suffering with purpose and instills hope. Though difficult, trials are temporary and yielding lasting glory. This biblical view of suffering equips Christians to endure, persevere, and walk by faith amidst the pains of this present age.
Romans 8 goes on to provide additional insight and encouragement concerning the suffering believer:
- Romans 8:26-27 – The Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness and suffering when we don’t know how to pray.
- Romans 8:28 – God works all things, including trials, for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
- Romans 8:31-39 – Nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ, including hardship, distress, and persecution.
With the Spirit’s help, believers can trust God to use suffering to accomplish His sovereign, loving purpose in their lives. God remains in control, and nothing can sever Christians from His unwavering love. Suffering is an opportunity to rely more fully on divine strength and anchor our hope in the life to come.
In summary, Romans 8:18 provides a much-needed eternal perspective on earthly affliction. Present sufferings should not crush our spirit or be seen as meaningless. Rather, trials are light and transient in contrast to the infinite joy set before us. This hope empowers endurance and perseverance. Though difficult, suffering produces Christlike character and future reward. Hardship tests and refines our faith, reorients us to what matters most, and draws us closer to our compassionate Savior.
The day is coming when God Himself will wipe away every tear and make all things new (Revelation 21:4). Until then, may we view suffering through the lens of eternity and run with endurance the race set before us, keeping our eyes fixed on Christ (Hebrews 12:1-2). The Spirit helps us in our weakness until the day we experience the glory to be revealed and meet our Savior face to face.
