In grappling with this reality, we find ourselves yearning for something greater, something that transcends our current circumstances and is not bound by the limitations of this earthly existence. This longing often brings us face-to-face with our own weaknesses and the realization that we lack the power to see the ultimate victory that God has promised us. This struggle for understanding and faith is reminiscent of the experiences expressed by the Psalmist, who found himself relying solely on God’s Word and promises, moment by moment, as he navigated through the trials of life. It is a profound journey of faith, where trust in God becomes paramount, even when the path seems dark and uncertain. In this way, suffering can serve as a catalyst for deeper faith and reliance on God's faithfulness, as we seek to understand the beautiful and mysterious ways in which He is at work in our lives.

There is an important distinction to be made between the concept of revelation as articulated in words and the profound experience of joy that arises when that revelation truly comes alive within us. This dynamic can be seen in the context of what John is expressing when he discusses the journey of faith. It is a transformative process in which we progress from being like a child in our understanding and experience of faith to reaching a more mature state, akin to that of a father. This progression signifies a transition from merely grasping the words of revelation to experiencing the deeper reality that those words signify. As we grow in our faith, we encounter moments where these rich experiences begin to overshadow the pain and struggles we may face. The joy and understanding that come from this deeper connection with our faith can often provide a sense of relief or even transcendence over our difficulties. Yet, it is crucial to recognize that this journey of growth does not eliminate the challenges of life; rather, it may at times reduce the overall quality of life we experience. The interplay between joy and pain is complex, and while the joy stemming from revelation can transform our perspective, it does not negate the existence of life's hardships. Thus, in this journey of faith, we seek to embrace both the joy of revelation and the reality of our experiences, understanding that they coexist and shape our spiritual growth.

This is the reason why God elevates one individual while causing another to fall. This principle often manifests in the context of uplifting the righteous and humbling the wicked. However, I have observed that within this fallen world, which is steeped in sin, this phenomenon can also be witnessed to some degree among the community of the elect, those who are chosen. At various points in our lives, it seems that we are all, in a sense, expendable in the grand scheme of divine providence. Yet, I firmly believe that we should not allow our yearning for eternal life and heavenly rewards to overshadow our innate desire for a long and fulfilling earthly existence. This internal struggle mirrors the ongoing battle we face with our own flesh and earthly desires. In this context, the message of salvation embodies a longing to be liberated from physical suffering, and this longing serves as tangible evidence of the transformative power of salvation. It's interesting to note that some religious individuals tend to become quite peculiar in their attempts to draw a line between the physical and spiritual realms, creating an unnecessary divide. In reality, this life is primarily about resisting temptation and adversity, often to the point of death, as we strive to remain steadfast in our faith.