How should Revelation 21:4 shape our perspective on current worldly troubles? The Promise Unpacked “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4) • A literal future scene: God Himself tenderly removes every trace of sorrow. • Final elimination of death and pain—troubles that began in Genesis 3 are forever reversed. • “Former things” means every cause and consequence of sin is gone. This is not wishful thinking; it is guaranteed by the character of God who “cannot lie” (Titus 1:2). Current Troubles in Light of Eternity • Earthly afflictions are temporary interruptions, not permanent realities. • Pain now highlights the contrast with the glory that is coming; it keeps our hearts homesick for heaven (Philippians 3:20–21). • We measure trials against an unending future without them—suffering shrinks when placed beside eternity. Practical Mind-set Shifts • Expect hardship but refuse despair. Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). • Interpret tears as reminders that God will personally wipe them away. • Replace “Why is this happening?” with “How does this prepare me for glory?” (2 Corinthians 4:17). • Let hope govern emotions: when grief surges, rehearse Revelation 21:4 aloud. • Hold possessions, plans, and even health loosely; only God’s promised future is secure (Hebrews 13:14). Companions to the Promise • Romans 8:18 — present sufferings “are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed.” • 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 — “momentary light affliction is producing…an eternal weight of glory.” • Isaiah 25:8 — foretold that the Lord “will swallow up death forever, and the Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from every face.” • 1 Peter 1:6-7 — trials refine faith, making future praise all the richer. Living It Out Today • Speak the promise into today’s news headlines: wars, disease, economic uncertainty all belong to the “former things” that will pass away. • Visit the hurting with Revelation 21:4 in hand; anchor their hearts to the same hope. • Invest time, energy, and resources in what will outlast this age—people’s souls, gospel outreach, acts of mercy. • Practice anticipatory worship: thank God now for the day when tears, funerals, and hospitals no longer exist. The certainty of God’s coming tear-wiping hand reframes every trouble. We endure with confidence, knowing the end of the story is already written—and it is joy. |
    |