That is why we do not lose heart, but even though our outer man is deteriorating, yet our inner man is renewed day by day (2Corinthians 4:16)
Heat levels are high outside the Concorde when it is airborne at the speed of sound. The temperature on the outer surface of the plane can reach 127 degrees Celsius even though the air temperature outside is -56 degrees Celsius.
This expansion caused by heat makes the craft about 23 cm longer at the speed of sound than it is at rest. The floor of the aircraft cabin is made of non-expandable metal coils, and four air conditioning systems keep the space inside the aircraft comfortable. While the outside of the plane was subjected to enormous stress, the climate inside remained stable.
In today's Bible reading, Paul describes our outer man who is degenerating under the heat of great pressure, while our outer man is always being renewed day by day. Notice the difference between the two:
OUTSIDE INSIDE
Pressed on all sides Not crushed (2 Corinthians 4:8)
Don't give up hope (2Corinthians 4:8)
Persecuted Not left alone (2Corinthians 4:9)
Thrown Down Not Corrupted (2Corinthians 4:9)
When faced with various trials, we can have strength through Christ (2 Corinthians 4:11). Our part is to look farther ahead, from the temporal to the eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18) and renew our minds daily (Ephesians 4:23) through God's word and prayer -- DJD
* Take from Daily Reflections