What does "you are but foreigners and sojourners" teach about our earthly life? Setting the Context “For we are foreigners and sojourners in Your presence, as were all our forefathers. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope.” (1 Chronicles 29:15) Spoken by King David at the close of gathering offerings for the future temple, these words remind the entire nation that—even while standing in their promised land—they are still temporary residents before God. What the Phrase Means • “Foreigners” (Hebrew: ger) – people living outside their own country, under the protection of another. • “Sojourners” (Hebrew: tōšab) – temporary settlers who do not put down permanent roots. Both terms paint life on earth as a brief stopover rather than a final destination. Truths About Our Earthly Life • Life is temporary – “Our days on earth are like a shadow” (1 Chron 29:15). – Psalm 39:12 echoes the same thought. • Ownership is God’s, stewardship is ours – “The land must not be sold permanently, because the land is Mine and you are but foreigners and sojourners with Me.” (Leviticus 25:23) • Identity is heavenly, not worldly – “But our citizenship is in heaven.” (Philippians 3:20) • Expectation is forward-looking – The patriarchs “acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth… they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one.” (Hebrews 11:13-16) • Conduct must reflect the homeland – “Beloved, I urge you as foreigners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh.” (1 Peter 2:11) Living Like Foreigners and Sojourners Today • Hold possessions loosely; treat every resource as on loan from God. • Invest more in eternal treasures than in passing comforts. • Walk in holiness that marks you as belonging to a different kingdom. • Stay mobile in spirit—willing to go, give, or change as the Lord directs. • Practice hospitality; travelers know how valuable welcome can be. • Share the gospel faithfully, helping others find their true home. The Hope That Anchors Us • Jesus prepares the permanent dwelling: “In My Father’s house are many rooms… I am going there to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2-3) • One day the journey ends: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth… He will wipe away every tear.” (Revelation 21:1-4) Summary “You are but foreigners and sojourners” teaches that life here is brief, stewardship-focused, heaven-directed, and holiness-shaped. Every sunrise is another step on the road home, where full citizenship awaits in the presence of God. |
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