One of the greatest challenges for Christians is maintaining an eternal perspective.
Life goes by so quickly. And yet we often get caught up in the day to day tasks and forget that we are not promised tomorrow.
James 4:14 refers to the human life as a vapor: it appears for a while and then vanishes.
Perhaps if we remembered this truth we would have an easier time also remembering our purpose on earth.
Life isn’t about accumulating money, power, or fame. Life’s about fulfilling God’s purpose for us. We must focus, therefore, on His eternal perspective.
Colossians 3:2 tell us, “Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.”
Although we live in time now, God created us for eternity. As Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “[God] has also put eternity in their hearts.” We may live in time, but eternity must be the backdrop of our life. We must learn to live for eternal purposes.
So what is this eternal perspective? What is God’s way? His thoughts that are higher than ours?
An eternal perspective affects our priorities and actions. Here are some of the ways believing and relying on God’s eternal truths will affect your life:
– You will realize that suffering on earth is momentary. 2 Corinthians 4:17 tells us that our afflictions here on earth are “light and momentary” and are “achieving for us an eternal glory” that will far outweigh anything else. In other words, the things we experience here on earth are shaping us and preparing us for eternal life.
– You will find it easier to love others. Every soul is eternal, and each is in desperate need of knowing God and his mercy. When this is at the forefront of our mind it helps us extend love and mercy to those around us. The way we relate to others is inevitably influenced when we believe that eternal closeness or separation from God hangs in the balance.
– You will not be fearful. People are afraid of many things, and especially of death. But 1 John 4:18 tells us that there is no fear in love and that perfect love drives out fear. We have perfect love from our Savior. It was through his perfect act of love on the cross that sin, suffering, and death was defeated (1 Cor. 15:55-57). He has made available to us eternal life. This means we no longer have to be fearful of anything, not even death. God wants us to embrace and embody the love he has extended to us.
In what ways can you reflect on God’s eternal truths today? How will it change how you think and act? Remember, though heaven and earth pass away, God’s truth will never disappear (Matt. 24:35).
Also read:
Living For Jesus: Trusting Him
Explore God’s Word
Devotionals to Grow in Your Faith
