In the Body or Away from It
“5 For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, 3 because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4 For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we live by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.”
Paul speaks of the temporary nature of our earthly tent, knowing that it will one day fall. Yet, he expresses hope for the eternal dwelling that God has prepared for us in heaven. Paul has a deep longing for eternal life that surpasses the frailty of this present life.
In the context of some Corinthian believers questioning his appearance or weaknesses, Paul reminds them of what truly matters. He urges the Corinthian church to focus on the essential, not on outward appearances, but on their relationship with God. He emphasizes that wherever we are, we must strive to please God.
Instead of dichotomizing our bodies and souls, the temporary and the eternal, we should recognize that every area of life is interconnected in God’s purpose. Our current bodies are not to be discarded; rather, they will be clothed with God’s new life, transformed to dwell with Him. This understanding makes it essential to live now, in our bodies, in a way that honors God. Our earthly life is a preparation for the eternal life that awaits us; our actions here have lasting significance.
Through today’s message, let us consider the essential question: "How can I please God?" May we ask this of God and live by the answer we receive. Let today’s life be one where we seek to follow God’s voice with joy and faith.
Prayer: Although our lives hold limitations and weaknesses, we thank You, Lord, for giving us the hope of a glorious new body to dwell with You. We desire to experience Your grace and love even in this earthly life, to dwell in Your presence. Help us discern Your voice, understand what we need to change and act upon it, and let our focus and direction in life be renewed for Your glory. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)
Devotional content is available on the Our Daily Bread website.