Friday, November 17, 2017
Matthew 25:34 Then the King will say to those on his right, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world."
WHAT WILL HEAVEN BE LIKE?
For as long as we continue as pilgrims on earth it's beyond our ability to comprehend. Yet the Lord, for our spiritual encouragement in our walk of faith, affords us a glimpse into the beauty of what He has prepared for us in yonder world. In Revelation He pictures heaven as a magnificent city with streets of pure gold, transparent as glass, with gates made of pearls and walls decorated with precious gemstones. He speaks of heaven as having a river, clear as crystal, flowing through its center. It will be a place where there's no night-time ever and no need for a sun to give off light because the glory of the Lord will radiate everywhere. All that brings sorrow and tears to our lives in this sin-cursed world-- all pain, sadness, worry, trouble, stress-- will be non-existent. Nothing impure will enter this heavenly "city" nor anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful. Only those whose names have been written in the Lamb's book of life (read Revelation 21 and 22 for the full and thrilling picture).
And the best part? We'll see Jesus face to face. He'll serve as our beneficent care-taker. He will lead us as a shepherd to springs of living water. He will spread His tent over us, keeping us secure forever. We will be before His throne and serve Him continuously in joy indescribable.
Such is the precious inheritance the Lord will bestow on all believers on the Last Day for His mercy's sake. May the prospect of the happy future that awaits us afford us extra inspiration for fighting the good fight of faith, till we arrive at our heavenly destination.
Then the glory Then the rest
Then the Sabbath peace unbroken
Then the garden Then the throne
Then the crystal river flowing
Then the splendor Then the life
Then the new creation singing
Then the marriage Then the love
Then the feast of joy unending
Then the knowing Then the light
Then the ultimate adventure
Then the Spirit's harvest gathered
Then the Lamb in majesty
Then the Father's Amen . . . Then . . .
(Worship Supplement 2000, 795)
