The Hope of Eternity: Fixing our Eyes on Heaven ππ
In a world filled with uncertainties and hardships, it is essential for us as believers to fix our eyes on heaven, where our eternal hope lies. The Bible provides us with numerous examples and teachings that encourage us to keep our focus on the eternal life that awaits us. Let us dive into the Word and discover the hope that awaits us in eternity.
Jesus, the ultimate example of faith, constantly pointed His followers towards heaven. In John 14:2-3, Jesus assures us, "In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also."
The Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, gave us a beautiful perspective on eternity in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18: "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
The story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 teaches us about the faith and trust required to fix our eyes on heaven. Despite the difficult task of sacrificing his son, Abraham believed with unwavering faith that God would provide a way.
Hebrews 11:16 reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are ultimately citizens of heaven: "But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city."
Jesus often used parables to illustrate heavenly truths. The Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32 reveals the Father's immense love and forgiveness, reminding us that our true home is with Him.
1 Peter 1:3-4 encourages us with these words: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you."
The martyrdom of Stephen in Acts 7:54-60 teaches us about the glorious hope that awaits us in heaven, even in the face of persecution and death.
Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6:19-21 remind us to store up our treasures in heaven, rather than on earth: "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal."
The story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal consequences of our choices. It emphasizes the importance of placing our hope in heaven rather than earthly riches.
Philippians 3:20-21 tells us that our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await our Savior, Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body.
Jesus' promise to the thief on the cross in Luke 23:43 offers us hope and assurance: "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise."
The book of Revelation paints a vivid picture of the glory of heaven, with its streets of gold, crystal-clear river, and the presence of God Himself. Revelation 21:3-4 gives us a glimpse into this eternal reality: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.'"
The story of the resurrection of Lazarus in John 11 reveals Jesus' power over death, assuring us that He has conquered the grave and holds the keys to eternal life.
As Christians, we are called to live in hope and eagerly anticipate the return of our Lord. Titus 2:13 encourages us to be "waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ."
Let us fix our eyes on heaven, for it is there that our true hope lies. May we be filled with joy and anticipation as we journey through this life, knowing that one day, we will dwell in the presence of our Heavenly Father for all eternity. May God bless you abundantly as you fix your eyes on the hope of eternity! ππ
Benjamin Kibicho (Guest) on December 22, 2018
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ππβ€οΈ I pray for your well-being
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God is good, all the time!
Jane Malecela (Guest) on September 21, 2017
ππ I beseech you, God
Thomas Mtaki (Guest) on September 11, 2017
Praying for you π
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Trust in His plan.
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Rose Lowassa (Guest) on June 9, 2017
πβ€οΈβ¨ May God grant you joy
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Francis Mtangi (Guest) on April 15, 2017
πππ May God cover you with love
Andrew Mchome (Guest) on April 11, 2017
Let your light shine before others
Charles Wafula (Guest) on March 1, 2017
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Mary Mrope (Guest) on February 16, 2017
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ππ Be greatly blessed
Moses Kipkemboi (Guest) on November 12, 2016
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Alice Mrema (Guest) on September 28, 2016
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Joyce Aoko (Guest) on September 25, 2016
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Peter Mugendi (Guest) on June 6, 2016
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Nancy Kabura (Guest) on February 5, 2016
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Mariam Hassan (Guest) on January 25, 2016
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Joseph Kawawa (Guest) on August 31, 2015
ππ Praise our God
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Blessings to you and your family.
Henry Sokoine (Guest) on May 15, 2015
In faith, all things are possible
Joyce Aoko (Guest) on May 13, 2015
πβ¨π God will answer your prayers
Richard Mulwa (Guest) on May 8, 2015
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Grace and peace be with you.