Paul was a man who often encouraged, corrected, and instructed the early church by employing the function of contrast.

“So we do not lose heart.  Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.  For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen.  For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

What is experienced on this earth, the struggles of each day, will become a distant memory when the full glory of eternity takes the stage.  In the moments between, the weakness of the flesh resists growth and refinement.  The ever-present temptation to compromise paints an alluring picture of false comfort, but the way of Christ does not offer concessions.  He is righteous and true and His Word is everlasting.

I am thankful that a life once trapped the weakness of the flesh can be transformed by the power of God – to experience His glory!  Tonight, I am thankful for the contrast.