If you want to know how to approach this life, the Apostle Paul makes a profound statement in his second letter to the church in Corinth:
“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (II Corinthians 4:18)
At first glance, Paul’s words might seem to suggest a form of escapism, urging us to disregard the world around us. But Paul is not saying we should ignore or disengage from the realities of life. Instead, he encourages a broader vision, a lens that captures more than the mere surface of daily experiences. It’s about seeing through and beyond—acknowledging the immediate while anchoring our lives in the eternal.
We should view our lives — including every situation, every challenge, every grief, and every joy — through the lens of eternity.
Why, then, is this eternal perspective crucial? First, it provides stability. In a world that is constantly changing, the eternal gives us something unshakeable to hold onto. Our hope is not tied to the fluctuating stock markets, the shifting sands of social opinion, or even the fleeting pleasures of life. Instead, it is anchored in the eternal character and promises of God.
Second, seeing the world through an eternal lens changes how we value and interact with the temporal. If we know that what we see is temporary, we are less likely to be devastated by loss or overly elated by gain. This perspective fosters a spirit of stewardship rather than ownership. We become caretakers of the earthly, taking responsibility for the things in our lives but keeping our identity and hope in the One who is sovereign over our lives and all of Creation.
Furthermore, an eternal perspective enriches our sense of gratitude and worship. Every good thing in this life points beyond itself to the source of all goodness.
Let us, therefore, aspire to base our lives not on the temporal but rather the eternal. Let us keep our hearts fixed on the One we don’t yet fully see, but Who we will see when we enter into His glory.
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