²⁶ For he considered reproach for the sake of Christ to be greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, since he was looking ahead to the reward. (Hebrews 11:26 CSB)

We do not like being told, No.

No, is a perfectly acceptable answer. But we want the reason behind the no.

No is, or should be, a full stop. Especially when it comes from God.

Often no means He has greater things in store for us. However, our human sensibilities and our desire for immediate gratification get in the way. We want what we want now!

But we must try to look ahead even when we cannot see the outcome and consider the greater reward. However, this means that things may remain difficult while we are on this earth. Our reward may be all the way out beyond the end of our lives.

It is this realization that we must learn to cope with.