"For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 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." (2 Cor. 4:17-18)
Most of us have been taught to foresee needs, respond to needs, and do everything we can to meet every need. We live in a world of perpetual needs. Paul would call this ‘our light affliction which is but for a moment.’ Rather than live our lives focused on needs, can we not rather look at the unseen and pursue the vision God has placed in our hearts?
Needs are motivators that keep our natural eyes focused on the temporal. Human logic, reasoning, planning and worry often keep us glued to the obvious needs we all have. Jesus spoke of this as well.
“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?” (Mt. 6:31)
Being driven by needs is common. It is also the reason so few ever step into their true purpose. How did Jesus finish this thought?
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Mt. 6:33)
In other words, be driven by your vision, not by your needs! Seek first His kingdom. Look at the eternal. It is in pursuing our vision, that which God has birthed within us, that our needs will be met.
Most inventions, scientific advancements, incredible buildings and dramatic accomplishments were brought forth by those who didn’t focus on their need, but rather on something within that motivated them. In the process of following the vision, their needs were met. When we only pursue satisfying our bag of needs, our compensation will only fill that bag. When we pursue our vision there will be multiplication and eventual abundance.
Within each of us there is a divine calling, gifting and purpose. In your human logic it is that thing you would do if every other need was met. But, what if the pursuit of the eternal offered the promise of more than enough in the temporal? I’m not talking about quitting your job and leaving your family. I’m talking about seeing your job as seed rather than harvest. Lift up your eyes. See past the temporal and let His vision motivate you toward your divine calling and purpose.