New Jerusalem

Zerich Thu 08 Apr 2010, 7:10 pm

Daily Devotional

April 8, 2010
Our Heavenly Place: New Jerusalem
Revelation 21:1-8

The apostle John heard Jesus promise to prepare a place for His followers (John 14:1-6). Many years later, he was given a vision of that place—and he watched the New Jerusalem come down out of heaven. The sight was beyond human description, but he did his best to put this heavenly vision into earthly language (Rev. 21:9-22:5).

John saw the brilliance of God's glory radiating from the structure, whose foundation gleamed with the dazzling colors of precious stones. The gates were made of pearls and the street of transparent gold. This 1500-mile cube-shaped city was designed by the Lord as a place for Himself and mankind to live in perfect intimacy for all eternity. In verses 3 and 4, he notes that "the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him; they will see His face."

Though we may have difficulty imagining the physical structure of this heavenly city, we have no trouble understanding the meanings of the things that are not in the New Jerusalem. There will be no pain, tears, mourning, or death. Sin and every one of its consequences will be removed. All frustration, boredom, and problems will cease. No one will have handicaps, and our bodies will never grow tired or sick.

When the difficulties of this life become burdensome, focus on your glorious heavenly future. The only trouble and pain you will ever experience is now. When your feet walk on the streets of New Jerusalem with the Savior, all the old ravages of sin will be gone, and your joy will be full.

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