How does understanding Revelation 21:11 affect our daily walk with Christ? Setting our hearts on the promised glory “having the glory of God. Her radiance was like a most precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.” (Revelation 21:11) • God’s own glory crowns the New Jerusalem. • The radiance is not borrowed light; it is God Himself shining out. • Jasper, clear as crystal, pictures flawless purity and breathtaking beauty. Seeing where history is headed lifts our gaze today. The same glory that will fill the coming city already indwells believers (Colossians 1:27). Unpacking the imagery of Revelation 21:11 • Glory of God – the blazing weight of His presence (Exodus 33:18-23). • Precious jewel – immeasurable worth (Malachi 3:17). • Clear as crystal – nothing opaque, nothing hidden (1 John 1:5). This is not poetic exaggeration; it is a literal snapshot of the future dwelling place of the redeemed, guaranteed by the trustworthiness of God’s Word (Revelation 21:5). Daily implications: letting God’s glory shine through us 2 Corinthians 3:18: “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord…” Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before men…” Practical outworking: • Speak words that display His character—truthful, gracious, life-giving. • Serve in ways that spotlight Him rather than ourselves. • Guard attitudes; resentment and jealousy dim the radiance. Guarding purity like crystal-clear jasper • Pursue holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). • Keep motives transparent; crystal clarity leaves no room for hidden agendas (Psalm 139:23-24). Living with precious, kingdom-centered values • View people as jewels, not obstacles (Philippians 2:3-4). • Invest time and treasure in what lasts (Matthew 6:19-21). • Measure success by faithfulness, not applause (1 Corinthians 4:2-5). Fuel for endurance and hope Romans 8:18 reminds that present sufferings “are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.” Knowing the city’s radiance: • Strengthens resolve when obedience is costly. • Calms anxiety; the story ends in light, not darkness. • Inspires worship in mundane moments. Closing encouragement Each sunrise is a rehearsal for the day when the “glory of God” will light all things forever (Revelation 21:23). Fix your heart on that jasper-bright future, and let the certainty of coming glory transform today’s walk with Christ. |
    |