Holy Foresight
Developing holy foresight allows us to see beyond present difficulties to a future of glory and triumph, trusting in God's goodness and plan for our lives.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the concept of 'Holy Foresight,' encouraging believers to look beyond their current struggles and tribulations to the future glory that awaits them in Christ. He reflects on how Jesus, despite His humiliation, maintained a vision of His ultimate exaltation, urging us to adopt a similar perspective in our own lives. Spurgeon calls for courage in the face of adversity, reminding us that our present sufferings are temporary and that we should focus on the promise of future triumph. He encourages believers to find strength in the assurance of being with Christ and witnessing His glory, proclaiming, 'Nevertheless - hereafter.'
Text
Nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of Heaven. (Matthew 26:64)
Ah, Lord, Thou wast in Thy lowest state when before Thy persecutors Thou wast made to stand like a criminal! Yet the eyes of Thy faith could see beyond Thy present humiliation into Thy future glory. What words are these, "Nevertheless - hereafter!" I would imitate Thy holy foresight, and in the midst of poverty, or sickness, or slander, I also would say, "Nevertheless - hereafter." Instead of weakness, Thou hast all power; instead of shame, all glory; instead of derision, all worship, Thy cross has not dimmed the splendor of Thy crown, neither has the spittle marred the beauty of Thy face.
Say, rather, Thou are the more exalted and honored because of Thy sufferings.
So, Lord, I also would take courage from the "hereafter." I would forget the present tribulation in the future triumph. Help thou me by directing me into Thy Father's love and into Thine own patience, so that when I am derided for Thy name I may not be staggered but think more and more of the hereafter, and, therefore, all the less of today. I shall be with Thee soon and behold Thy glory. Wherefore, I am not ashamed but say in my inmost soul, "Nevertheless - hereafter."
Sermon Outline
- I. The Power of Holy Foresight
- A. Seeing beyond present humiliation to future glory
- B. Finding strength in the midst of weakness
- C. Exalting in the face of shame and derision
Key Quotes
“I would imitate Thy holy foresight, and in the midst of poverty, or sickness, or slander, I also would say, 'Nevertheless - hereafter.'” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Thou art the more exalted and honored because of Thy sufferings.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“I shall be with Thee soon and behold Thy glory.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Remember that God is always working for your good, even in difficult times.
- Trust in God's plan and goodness, and He will give you the strength you need to face challenges.
- Focus on the future glory and triumph that awaits you, and you will be able to endure present hardships with courage and hope.