In what ways can you live today with eternity in mind? The Promise of a New Creation “For behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.” (Isaiah 65:17) God pledges a future so glorious that present sorrows fade from memory. That certain future is meant to shape present living. Why Eternity Shapes Today • Eternity is real, fixed, and near (Romans 13:11–12). • Earthly life is brief, “a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14). • Eternal rewards endure; earthly gains do not (Matthew 6:19–21). Believing these truths helps reorder priorities, affections, and daily decisions. Practical Ways to Live with Eternity in View • Pursue 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). • Invest in kingdom relationships. – Encourage, forgive, disciple, and love, knowing these souls will last forever (1 Thessalonians 2:19–20). • Steward resources for lasting impact. – Give generously to gospel work. Treasure in heaven outlasts any earthly asset (Luke 12:33). • Speak the good news. – Share Christ so others may enter the new heavens and new earth (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Endure hardship with hope. – “For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). • Set your mind above every morning. – “Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated… Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:1–2). • Cultivate worship now for the worship then. – Gather with believers, sing, pray, and study Scripture—the preview of eternal praise (Revelation 7:9–12). Anchor Verses for an Eternal Perspective • Isaiah 65:17 – New heavens and earth promised. • Revelation 21:1 – Promise confirmed. • 2 Peter 3:13 – “In keeping with His promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” • Hebrews 13:14 – “For here we do not have a permanent city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.” • Philippians 3:20 – “Our citizenship is in heaven.” Daily Heart Checks • Examine attachments to temporary things and loosen the grip where necessary. • Celebrate small glimpses of God’s coming world: justice done, beauty enjoyed, sin defeated. • Keep short accounts with sin; confession fosters readiness for eternity. • Encourage someone each day with the hope of the new creation. Living today with eternity in mind turns ordinary routines into worship and ordinary people into ambassadors of a coming, everlasting kingdom. |
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