What practical steps can we take to live in light of this truth? The Core Truth: Our Resurrection Destiny “So will it be with the resurrection of the dead: What is sown is perishable; it is raised imperishable.” (1 Corinthians 15:42) Paul declares that every believer, though now wrapped in a body that breaks down, will one day stand up in a body that never will. Because this is certain—not metaphorical but literal—our everyday choices should reflect it. Step 1: Anchor Your Identity in the Coming Transformation • Remember who you will be: “He will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body.” (Philippians 3:21) • Speak that truth to yourself when temptation whispers, “This is as good as it gets.” • Rehearse it aloud in worship songs, memory verses, or journal entries. Step 2: Pursue Holiness Now • A pure future calls for a pure present. “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:3) • Practical habits: – Set digital boundaries; guard your eyes and thoughts. – Replace gossip with purposeful encouragement. – Schedule regular confession and accountability with a trusted believer. Step 3: Invest in What Outlasts Decay • Imperishable bodies deserve imperishable priorities. “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) • Redirect resources: – Time—serve in ministries that advance the gospel. – Money—give generously to Kingdom work. – Talents—use skills for eternal impact, not just career advancement. Step 4: Face Suffering with Resurrection Hope • Pain is temporary; glory is forever. “Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day.” (2 Corinthians 4:16) • Practical response: – During illness, meditate on Romans 8:11. – Frame trials as reminders that the best is not now but coming. – Share testimonies of God’s sustaining grace in hardship. Step 5: Encourage Others Toward Eternal Perspective • “Therefore comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18) • How to do it: – Text a verse about resurrection hope to someone grieving. – Discuss future glory in small group, not just present problems. – Model contagious joy that makes people ask for the reason behind it. Step 6: Stay Unmovable in Gospel Mission • Paul concludes, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) • Apply it: – When ministry feels fruitless, remember the empty tomb guarantees final reward. – Keep sharing Christ even when culture resists; resurrection power backs you. Living Today with Tomorrow in View Perishable now, imperishable later—that fact reshapes identity, priorities, endurance, and mission. Lean into it daily, and the promised future will color every present moment with purpose and hope. |
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