Definition: For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really interesting and somewhat poetic passage from 2 Corinthians 4:17. It's a bit complex, so we’ll go through it step-by-step. Here’s the gist: This verse is saying that our struggles – the difficulties and hardships in our lives – are actually a much bigger deal than anything we experience in this life. It’s not just about temporary pain; it's about something incredibly valuable and lasting. Let's unpack it word by word: “For our light affliction…” - This is the core of the verse. “Light affliction” isn’t about a literal, painful struggle. It refers to spiritual suffering , challenges, difficulties, and trials we face – things like grief, disappointment, loneliness, moral struggles, or feeling lost. Think of it as a battle against darkness within ourselves. “which is but for a moment…” - This emphasizes that these trials aren’t permanent. They're fleeting, temporary, and won’t last forever. “…worketh for us a far more exceeding eternal weight of glory.” – This is the really important part. "Eternal weight of glory" means something incredibly valuable and precious, like eternal reward , eternal life with God, or a deeper connection to God . “Far more exceeding” emphasizes that this glory isn’t just a small thing; it's a massive amount of good. So, what does all this mean? The verse is saying that we are experiencing hardship and suffering now, but God’s purpose for us is to be involved in something incredibly important and rewarding in the afterlife . It’s not just about surviving; it's about being a part of a grander plan where our struggles ultimately lead to something much better. Here's what it’s trying to convey: Hope amidst hardship: It’s offering comfort and perspective. Even though we’re going through tough times, God is working for us a much greater reward in the future. A shift in focus: It's urging us to not get discouraged by our struggles but to remain focused on the ultimate goal – eternal life with God. Resilience and faith: It’s teaching us to trust that God is working for our good, even when things seem bleak. In a nutshell, it’s saying that while we’re facing challenges now, God has a plan for us that involves something incredibly valuable beyond what we experience in this life. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a promise of eternal reward. However, it's important to remember that the focus here isn’t just on getting rewards but on being involved in them through our relationship with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain this passage in more detail? Give you a related quote or analogy? Discuss how this verse relates to other passages in the Bible?