Paul is quoting David here from Psalm 116...He is looking as it says in Hebrews 12 back to the cloud of witnesses that went before him and finds encouragement and strength in their mutual faith.
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.—Hebrews 12:1-2
If they could endure who had not seen the risen Lord, Paul could also and so can I. Paul “re-minds” himself of truth in verses 14 through 18 of 2 Corinthians 4.
knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”—2 Corinthians 4:14-18
Such glorious, faith-encouraging truth! I NEED to do as Paul did and as David did! So often I find myself speaking worldly words in the face of adversity (okay...even in the face of minor annoyances) rather than words of faith. My eyes focus on what I can see and feel and my faith falters. Oh Father, forgive my lack of faith. I do groan in this tent, desiring as Paul says to be clothed with my heavenly habitation. You, Father, are preparing me right now (Light affliction - vs 17) for my heavenly home and have given me Your Spirit as a guarantee. By Your Spirit then, may I look and speak of those things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
So then, being always filled with good courage and confident hope, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord—for we walk by faith, not by sight [living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises]—-2 Corinthians 5:6-7 AMPLIFIED BIBLE
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