What practical steps can we take to live with eternity in mind? Life Is Short, Eternity Is Long James 4:14 reminds us, “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes”. A mist evaporates in moments, but eternity never ends. When that truth sinks in, day-to-day choices look different. Fix Your Eyes on the Unseen • 2 Corinthians 4:18 tells us to “look not at what is seen, but at what is unseen.” • Colossians 3:1-2 calls us to “set your minds on things above.” Make it practical: – Begin each morning by reading a brief passage about heaven (Revelation 21, John 14). – End each day recalling one eternal promise God fulfilled. Gratitude anchors the heart beyond the visible. Hold Plans Loosely, Submit Them Quickly • James 4:15 urges, “Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills….’” Action steps: – Write tomorrow’s to-do list, then pray, “Your will, not mine.” – Celebrate changed plans as proof God is leading and teaching flexibility. Redeem the Time You’re Given • Ephesians 5:15-16: “Be very careful… making the most of every opportunity.” • Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our days.” Practical ideas: – Block out intentional time for family, worship, service—treat it like a non-negotiable appointment. – Limit entertainment that doesn’t refresh your soul or build others up. Invest Where Moths Can’t Destroy • Matthew 6:20: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” • 1 Timothy 6:18-19 adds, “Be rich in good works… lay up treasure for the future.” Try this: – Give generously and anonymously when possible; hidden giving trains the heart to seek God’s approval, not human applause. – Translate hobbies into ministry: a baker brings bread to shut-ins, a musician leads worship at the nursing home. Live as Pilgrims, Not Permanent Residents • Hebrews 13:14: “For here we do not have a permanent city.” • 1 Peter 2:11 calls believers “sojourners and exiles.” Practical cues: – Hold material possessions lightly; declutter yearly and donate what you haven’t used. – Keep a packed “go” bag for crisis relief or mission travel; readiness reinforces pilgrim identity. Serve Wholeheartedly with the Finish Line in Sight • Colossians 3:23-24: “Work at it with all your heart… you will receive an inheritance.” • 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” Action plan: – Attach eternal motives to routine tasks: laundry becomes clothing loved ones; spreadsheets support honest provision. – Memorize one verse about eternal reward each month to renew motivation. Guard Your Heart, Shape Your Loves • Matthew 6:21: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” • 1 John 2:17: “The world is passing away… but whoever does God’s will lives forever.” Daily practices: – Fast from social media one day a week; use the time to write letters of encouragement. – Replace envy with prayer for others’ eternal good, training the heart to value souls over status. Finish Faithful, Not Famous At the end of life, the goal isn’t applause but the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). Every choice that echoes in eternity—big or small—moves us closer to hearing that commendation. Live today so that moment will be one of joyful recognition, not regret. |
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