1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. This text has to do with how we see things NOW, and how we will see things THEN. Now, we see through a glass darkly, in other words we sometimes are unable to see clearly. We face trials, temptations, family issues, misunderstandings, health issues, financial issues, on and on we could go. For NOW we see through a glass darkly. Are you not really glad there is a difference between now and then? I recall as a young boy going to a carnival where they had mirrors that distorted the reflection. A tall skinny person may appear short and fat! The person was not short or fat but they appeared that way. In life we must understand that things are not always as they appear. Something may appear to be hurting us when in fact there is a God in Heaven that has designed the situation to help us instead. Nowhere does the Bible say all things are good, but It does teach us God is working all things together for good to those who love him. That is why it is imperative that when we cannot see clearly, we must walk on with the Lord in faith. Many make the mistake of giving up when their vision becomes dimmed. May I encourage you to remember that our Lord loves us, He sees the big picture. NOW we see through a glass darkly, but THEN face to face. For now we must walk by faith, sometimes not being able at all to see God’s hand in the situation. We must press on knowing our Lord Jesus is in control, and can absolutely be trusted! But THEN… no more second guessing, no more walking by faith, for we shall see Him as He is! The songwriter said… I shall know Him, I shall know Him, and redeemed by His side I shall stand, I shall know Him, I shall know Him, by the prints of the nails in His hands! God’s dear people… Rejoice! Soon we shall know even as also we are known! What a day that will be!
May we press on NOW, for THEN we shall be exceeding glad we did! Amen. Pastor