When affliction is upon us it feels neither light nor momentary. I’m thinking today of those undergoing surgeries, those making difficult decisions about loved ones, those battling depression and anxiety. I sense God saying, Don’t lose heart.

Those words are found not once but twice in 2 Corinthians 4. The first mention puts fresh wind in my sails: ​“Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart.”

The second is where Renovaré (to renew) gets its name:

So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure… (2 Cor 4:16 – 17 NRSV)

Maintaining heart and finishing well gets me thinking about Richard Foster. He retires from public speaking this year and Christianity Today published a special interview with him. It’s for subscribers, but they graciously allowed us to share the full version with you.

Also, don’t miss a very special podcast where Nathan and Richard Foster invite us along for a hike to talk about solitude.