4:16 For which cause we faint not; {10} but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is {o} renewed day by day.
(10) He adds as it were a triumphant song, that he is outwardly afflicted, but inwardly he profits daily: and he is not bothered by all the miseries that may be sustained in this life, in comparison of that most constant and eternal glory.
(o) Gathers new strength so that the outward man is not overcome with the miseries which come freshly one after another, being maintained and upheld with the strength of the inward man.
4:16 For which cause. Moved by faith, hope, the love of souls and desire for the glory of God,
we faint not; do not for a moment give way and relax our efforts.
Though our outward man is perished. Though our body waste away under the trials, or is threatened with death.
The inward [man]. The immaterial nature in contrast with the material body. See Ro 7:22 Eph 3:16.
Is renewed day by day. His spiritual strength is constantly renewed by Christ.
4:16 Therefore - Because of this grace, we faint not. The outward man - The body. The inward man - The soul.
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.
