How can we live in anticipation of "where righteousness dwells"? Looking Forward to Where Righteousness Dwells “ But in keeping with His promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” — 2 Peter 3:13 Anchoring Our Hearts in the Promise - God’s pledge is certain; His Word never fails (Isaiah 55:11; Numbers 23:19). - Our anticipation is rooted not in wishful thinking but in covenant truth (Hebrews 10:23). - This hope shapes every decision and desire (Colossians 3:1-2). Choosing Daily Holiness - “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives” (2 Peter 3:11). - Holiness is not optional while we wait; it is the natural response to a holy future. - Pursue purity of mind and body (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4). - Guard speech and attitudes (Ephesians 4:29). - Practice integrity in work and relationships (Proverbs 11:3). Fueling Expectation with Worship - Fix your gaze on Christ through Scripture, prayer, and fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Let worship remind you of the coming kingdom’s values: justice, mercy, truth (Psalm 89:14). - Singing, serving, and giving declare that the age to come is more valuable than the present age (Matthew 6:19-21). Rejecting Spiritual Drift - Scoffers will question the promise (2 Peter 3:3-4). Stand firm by: - Regularly recalling biblical prophecy (2 Peter 3:2). - Remaining alert to subtle compromise (1 Peter 5:8). - Staying accountable within the body of Christ (Galatians 6:1-2). Living as Citizens of the New Creation - “Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there” (Philippians 3:20). - Display kingdom citizenship now: - Promote justice and righteousness in your community (Micah 6:8). - Share the gospel so others may enter the coming kingdom (2 Corinthians 5:20). - Invest time and resources in eternal priorities (1 Timothy 6:18-19). Letting Hope Purify Us - “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:3). - Hope is a refining fire: - It corrects our loves—detaching us from temporary pleasures. - It clarifies our mission—spurring sacrificial service. - It comforts our hearts—assuring us that every labor in the Lord is worthwhile (1 Corinthians 15:58). Awaiting with Diligent Peace - “Therefore, beloved, as you anticipate these things, make every effort to be found at peace—spotless and blameless in His sight” (2 Peter 3:14). - Peace springs from trust in His timetable; diligence keeps us fruitful while we wait. - The marriage of calm confidence and active obedience is the posture of those who long for the place where righteousness permanently dwells. |
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