Romans 8:18
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which will be revealed toward us.
In Romans 8, St.Paul discusses the concept of living by the Spirit and the hope that believers have in Christ Jesus. He addresses the struggles and sufferings that believers may face in their lives, including persecution, hardship, and the effects of sin. Despite these difficulties, St.Paul asserts that the present sufferings are insignificant when compared to the future glory that awaits believers.
Romans 8:18, highlights St.Paul's perspective on suffering. He expresses his personal consideration or judgment that the sufferings experienced in the present time are not even worthy of comparison with the glory that will be revealed to believers in the future.
St.Paul's emphasis on the future glory is based on the belief that God has a plan of redemption and restoration for His creation. In the preceding verses, St.Paul talks about the entire creation eagerly waiting for the revealing of the children of God (Romans 8:19) and how creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay (Romans 8:21).
In the context of Romans 8, St.Paul encourages believers to endure their present sufferings with hope and confidence, knowing that they will ultimately experience the glory of God's redemption and the fulfillment of His promises. The future glory he speaks of could include eternal life, the resurrection of the dead, and the full manifestation of God's kingdom.
Romans 8:18 serves as a reminder to believers that the sufferings they face in the present are temporary and incomparable to the eternal glory that awaits them. It offers encouragement to persevere and remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God's redemptive plan will ultimately overcome all suffering and bring about everlasting joy.