December 31, 2018: SOAP #3315:  Revelation 19-22

Scripture:  Revelation (NIV) 21:1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 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.”

Observation:  In this passage we see the culmination of God’s plan from before the foundation of the earth.  Here is the reason He created the earth as an environment into which He placed His highest creation.  The earth is a temporary dwelling place for man where God can visit His created beings and have fellowship with those who honor Him.  Earth was a place where God demonstrated His great love by sending His Son to die for man’s sin.  From the earth comes those created beings who prove faithful in believing and responding and being committed to God’s plan.  They are tested and given opportunity to prove their love for their Heavenly Father by their faith in His Son.  Those worthy, will have a place of great fellowship with their Creator God in this Holy City.  God’s plan to develop a bride for His Son to rule and reign with Him will be complete.  God’s great desire for fellowship will be fulfilled!  Eternity will reveal the next chapter of God’s man-plan, ruling and reigning in heavenly places.

Application:  Thinking about the big picture in helps me deal with everyday troubles that I face.  Many of my troubles are not very important when considered in the light of eternity.  Yet others that seem to be just an interruption take on great significance when considered in the light of eternity.

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, I need you to continually remind me of what God has planned for me.  Do not let me forget! Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!