Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. Romans 8:18
In the previous verse Paul tells us that we are God's children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his sufferings.
Regardless of how we feel or what our circumstances are we will always have hope (the hope we were given once we were saved) for what awaits us. During the time of our suffering we can still and should worship God for He is a good Father. I know that when we don't feel like worshipping God that is definitely when we need to.
I understand at times all hope seems to be lost, when we feel like the season of suffering is too much to bear. Much of this time is spent asking God to change our circumstances. Jesus knows how we feel. He prayed, "My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine." He was expressing that as a human we all want our suffering to be taken away.
Recently I learned to change my perspective (again) taking my mind off the problem and praying differently. Instead of pleading with God to change my circumstances I began to thank Him for being with me. I also started thanking Him for who He is rather than what He could do for me. This is when things starting changing.
This is what I was reminded of at the time. So, if you are going through hard times focus on who God is. God is all knowing so don't think for one minute that He is unaware of your situation. God is everywhere at the same time working all things for your good. God is all powerful ready to display He great plan in due time. (I trust you can take it from here) God is...God is whoever you need Him to be; meeting all of your needs.
It is inevitable that we will go through seasons of suffering during our stay here on earth. We long to be free from pain and suffering. Knowing Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior we eagerly wait for that day to come when we will gain so much more for our suffering. Our suffering will be nothing compared to the glory that awaits us in heaven.
We have eternal hope knowing God will wipe away every tear. There will be no more sin or sorrow. Never again will we suffer. This eternal hope is how we are able to always look forward to the day we arrive in glorious freedom from death. The time will come when we spend eternity in heaven with our Father, who makes us brand new. He will reveal who we really are; I imagine the way God has seen us all along. Citizens of heaven.
Beautifully said!