Romans 8:18
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
Explanation and Commentary of Romans 8:18
“In this world, you will have trouble” (Jn 16:33). The world is fallen (Gen 3), and while it is in the process of being restored by the finished work of Christ, suffering will remain a part of the experience for anyone in it, until the final return of Christ on the last day.
But there is no suffering whatsoever that should be considered random or pointless. Jesus told his disciples that there was trouble in the world so that they would have peace in their understanding that Jesus has overcome the world (Jn 16:33). In Romans 8, Paul discourses on the same theme. He explains that we must share in Christ’s sufferings in order to share in his glory.
The New Testament authors are completely consistent on this point. All suffering for the Christian is meant to produce joy and strength in us, leading to greater reward (Mt 5:12). All suffering for the believer is refinement, character shaping, and glory producing.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Romans 8:18
#1 “I consider…”
How we look at our situation matters a great deal and will dictate our feelings and behaviors in response. Some psychologists have said that life has no meaning apart from that which we give it. The reality is that life is bursting with meaning, but we must recognize the true biblical meaning, especially when we are suffering. Consider your suffering in light of cosmic reality as revealed by God in his Word.
#2 “…that our present sufferings…”
If you are not presently suffering anything discernible, be grateful, but understand that the nature of this world in this age where most of the world is still fallen, is suffering. Your present sufferings are only one microcosmic manifestation of the ultimate reality that the world is broken and in need of restoration. Thanks be to God that the process of restoration is well underway and a foregone conclusion.
#3 “…are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
This is a powerful way to give meaning (see #1) to our present sufferings. It is indeed how God gives it meaning. Suffering is productive, and the ultimate product is our glory. This is such an astounding truth that were we to comprehend it, we would walk around with our minds constantly in rapture and praise. We will have all impurities removed, in part by our sufferings, and what we will be is nearly impossible to grasp in its glory.
Bible Study on Romans 8:18
Expert Overview of Romans Ch. 5-16
Biblical Translations of Romans 8:18
NIV
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
NLT
Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.
ESV
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
KJV
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
NKJV
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Natalie Regoli is a child of God, devoted wife, and mother of two boys. She has a Master's Degree in Law from The University of Texas. Natalie has been published in several national journals and has been practicing law for 18 years.