How does this verse encourage us to live in holiness and obedience now? The Promise Captured in One Sentence “They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.” (Revelation 22:4) Longing for Face-to-Face Fellowship • Scripture assures us that we will literally look into the unveiled face of the risen Christ. • Knowing that moment is certain fuels a present-day passion to be morally ready: – “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8) – “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:3) Bearing His Name: Identity and Responsibility • The forehead was the place of public identification in biblical symbolism; God’s own name written there means we permanently belong to Him. • With that identity comes responsibility: – “Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands… ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.’” (2 Timothy 2:19) – “You shall be holy, for I, the LORD your God, am holy.” (Leviticus 19:2) Living Now in the Light of That Day • Future vision shapes present values; the clearer we see our destiny, the stronger our resolve to walk in obedience. • Standing before His face then urges us to live before His face now—nothing is hidden from the One who will look us eye to eye. Practical Steps Toward Holiness Today • Guard the mind: keep thought-life aligned with the One whose name will be on our foreheads. • Cultivate daily worship: rehearse now the awe we’ll experience forever. • Pursue visible obedience: let actions match the inscription of His name. • Stay repentant: quick confession keeps fellowship unbroken and conscience clear. • Serve sacrificially: works done in love anticipate the eternal service described in Revelation 22:3. Encouragement from the Rest of Scripture • “Therefore, beloved, since you anticipate these things, make every effort to be found at peace—spotless and blameless in His sight.” (2 Peter 3:14) • “Walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received.” (Ephesians 4:1) • “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) The guaranteed future of seeing His face and forever carrying His name motivates wholehearted holiness and glad obedience today. |