According to JoAnne

Citizens of Two Realms-The Temporal and the Eternal

As we journey through this life, we are constantly reminded that we are citizens of two realms – the temporal and the eternal. Our hearts are drawn to a place beyond this world, a place of indescribable beauty and unending joy: Heaven. Today, let’s delve into the sacred pages of Scripture to gain a glimpse of what heaven looks like, what happens when we reach its shores, and how the Bible guides us in our journey toward eternity.

The Bible provides us with tantalizing glimpses of the splendor that awaits us in heaven. Revelation 21:4 assures us that “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Imagine a realm where sorrow and suffering are unknown, replaced by perfect peace and unending worship.

When we step into the embrace of heaven, we will stand in the radiant presence of our Creator. 1 Corinthians 2:9 whispers, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” The mysteries of divine communion and joy beyond measure await us, where we will bask in the glory of the Almighty.

So, how do we secure our place in this heavenly realm? The Bible is clear that the only way to heaven is through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. John 14:6 holds the key: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” When we believe in the sacrificial death and victorious resurrection of Christ, we receive forgiveness of our sins and the promise of eternal life.

We first Believe and Confess: Romans 10:9-10 teaches us that salvation comes by believing in our hearts and confessing with our mouths that Jesus is Lord.

Step two is Repentance: Acts 3:19 calls us to repent, turning away from our sins and turning toward God’s grace.

Then we get to begin a New Life: 2 Corinthians 5:17 assures us that in Christ, we become new creations, set on a path toward heaven.

Our new life is then filled with Faith in Christ Alone: Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us that our salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Here are some key Scriptures about heaven from the Bible:

John 14:2-3 (NIV) – “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” Jesus assures His disciples of the heavenly dwelling He is preparing for believers.

Revelation 21:4 (NIV) – “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” This verse describes the perfect peace and restoration found in the new heaven and new earth.

1 Corinthians 2:9 (ESV) – “But, as it is written, ‘What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.’”* Paul emphasizes the incomprehensible beauty and glory of heaven that awaits believers.

Revelation 21:21 (NIV) – “The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.”* This imagery from John’s vision paints a vivid picture of the opulence and grandeur of the heavenly city.

2 Corinthians 5:1 (NIV) – “For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.” Paul emphasizes the contrast between our temporary earthly bodies and the eternal dwelling God has prepared for us.

Revelation 22:1-5 (NIV) – “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb… No longer will there be any curse.”* This passage describes the presence of God and the restoration of creation in the heavenly city.

Philippians 3:20-21 (NIV) – “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.” Paul emphasizes our heavenly citizenship and the transformation that awaits believers.

These verses provide glimpses into the incredible beauty, joy, and glory that await believers in heaven. They remind us of the eternal hope we have in Christ and inspire us to live in a way that aligns with our heavenly calling.

As we journey through this earthly life, let us keep our eyes fixed on the eternal horizon. Heaven is not a distant dream, but a glorious reality awaiting those who have placed their trust in Christ. May the hope of heaven illuminate our path, inspiring us to live lives that honor and glorify the One who has prepared a place for us.

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