17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

Other Translations of 2 Corinthians 4:17

King James Version

17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

English Standard Version

17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,

The Message

17 These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us.

New King James Version

17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,

New Living Translation

17 For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17

Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:13-18

(Read 2 Corinthians 4:13-18)

The grace of faith is an effectual remedy against fainting in times of trouble. They knew that Christ was raised, and that his resurrection was an earnest and assurance of theirs. The hope of this resurrection will encourage in a suffering day, and set us above the fear of death. Also, their sufferings were for the advantage of the church, and to God's glory. The sufferings of Christ's ministers, as well as their preaching and conversation, are for the good of the church and the glory of God. The prospect of eternal life and happiness was their support and comfort. What sense was ready to pronounce heavy and long, grievous and tedious, faith perceived to be light and short, and but for a moment. The weight of all temporal afflictions was lightness itself, while the glory to come was a substance, weighty, and lasting beyond description. If the apostle could call his heavy and long-continued trials light, and but for a moment, what must our trifling difficulties be! Faith enables to make this right judgment of things. There are unseen things, as well as things that are seen. And there is this vast difference between them; unseen things are eternal, seen things but temporal, or temporary only. Let us then look off from the things which are seen; let us cease to seek for worldly advantages, or to fear present distresses. Let us give diligence to make our future happiness sure.