“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed . . .” - 1 Peter 4:12-13a
These verses reveal a benefit of suffering that is sometimes overlooked, namely, a desire for heaven. How frequently do you consider the Day of Christ and ponder the sound of the trumpet heralding His return?
When you pause to ponder heaven, do you think of angels, pearly gates, gold streets, and mansions in heaven? In one children’s hymn, God’s house is even described as “A big, big house with lots and lots of rooms. A big, big yard where we can play football. A big, big table with lots and lots of food.” Comparisons between this life and heaven are among the worst errors we can make. We should not long for heaven because of its beauty or because it will be brimming with the best things. Rather, we ought to be longing for heaven because God is there and Jesus is seated at His right side.
The majority of us lead fairly cozy lives. We can acquire medicine to treat us if we are ill. We can take a pause and rest if we are exhausted. We have access to food whenever we are hungry. Most of us can worship without worry of persecution. Although we may have some difficulties, life is often quite good. This, my friend, is possibly the main cause of our lack of desire for heaven. According to Peter, we can take comfort in our suffering since it makes us “overjoyed when His glory is revealed.” Have you ever shared a terrible sickness with a Christian who was near death? Many will beg to pass away in order to enter a pain-free afterlife. Often, the desire to leave the earth grows stronger as life gets tougher.
There are several reasons to yearn for heaven, including the absence of suffering, grief, death, or tears. There will be no more temptation, Satan, or sin. There will be total fellowship, love, and unity among all people, along with the restoration of creation and eternal rewards. More than we can really fathom exists in heaven. King Jesus is seated on His throne in heaven and the angelic hosts are constantly praising Him and crying, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD God Almighty!”
We must keep in mind that this earth is not our permanent home. Our love for Christ and our desire to spend eternity with Him will be taken away if we let ourselves get too comfortable.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, it is really simple to get at ease in this life. Although I am here on a mission for Your glory, this is not my home. Help me to live as a resident of heaven. I pray that any pain I experience will fuel a strong desire to see You face-to-face. In the name of Jesus, Amen
