Salvation in Christ is a
tremendous free gift, which includes many other gifts. Not only did Jesus save
us from paying the penalty of our sins, but He also gave us eternal life and
the right to live with Him in New Jerusalem (Romans 5:8, 6:23). This makes us
children of almighty God and co-heirs with Jesus of all that our Father
possesses (Ezekiel 36:25; Galatians 4:4, 5:19).
New Jerusalem is a city filled
with many mansion-sized rooms and is a 1500-mile cube. Jesus went back to heaven
in order to prepare this place, so that He can dwell physically throughout
eternity with every authentic, Born Again Believer from all the ages (Hebrews 11:10-12:22; Revelation 3:12, 21:10). This city will come down from Heaven, and most likely be in
the area of Jerusalem in the Middle East.
Until then, God gives us the
gifts of Christ to dwell in us through His Holy Spirit (John 14:15-17), His Word to
enlighten us (Psalm 119:105), and His Body of Believers to encourage us (1 Corinthians 12:27). God's
Spirit speaks through an impression in our spirit to direct our every step
through life, to comfort us and allow us to accomplish the work He created us
to perform (Ephesians 2:10). We shall live as the bride of Christ forever (Isaiah 61:10; Revelation 21:9).
God provides for our every need (Psalm 55:22; 1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:19; 1 Peter 1:3), He liberally gives us His wisdom (James 1:5), and He
comforts our soul through every trial in life, turning them around for our
ultimate good (Romans 8:28). God collects our tears in a bottle and once His wrath is
full, He will pour out His vengeance on a wicked earth full of those who
rejected Him and persecuted His Saints (Psalm 56:8; Revelation 14:10).
Prayer:
Father God, You know how to give
good gifts to those who ask You (James 1:17; Matthew 7:11). We are humbled by Your love for us now, and for Your
provision for us even into eternity. You will restore to us the perfect
environment, which You provided for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). We will have
immortal bodies, a never-dying soul and our spirit's connection with You (1 Corinthians 15:53; Luke 16:19-31 - his body was in the grave, his
soul and spirit experienced hell). Help us to bring as many people into this same right
standing with You as we can possibly reach during our lifetime. Help us to be a
city set on hill, which allows Your light to shine though us (Matthew 5:14-16).
Thought for the Day:
The Kingdom of God has nothing to
do with carnal pursuits, but everything to do with living righteously in the
peace and joy of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 14:17
