July 22, 2020: SOAP #3884:  Isaiah 36-37; Psalm 76; 1Peter 1

Scripture:  1Peter (NIV) 1:17 Since you call on a Father who judges each man’s work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. 18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
1Peter (KJV)  1 …pass the time of your sojourning here in fear…

Observation:  Having a Heavenly Father who knows me completely and understands my every thought should affect how I live.  Knowing that I will answer to someone who knows me completely, should affect how I live. 

Looking around, I see how He created the earth to be a perfect place for us to live.  Jesus told us that He was going ahead to prepare a place for us in His Father’s house. (John 14:2)   Certainly that place will be even more perfect; it will be a permanent home. 

Application:  I am a sojourner—a stranger while living on the earth.  I am just passing through.  I should not get too attached to things that cannot be taken to heaven. 
–The size of the house I live in now will make no difference when I get to heaven.  But I can get some eternal value out of my house by inviting a guest over for dinner, sharing God’s Word and prayer.   
–My mode of transportation here will make no difference there.  Except the Lord may give me an opportunity to provide a ride for someone who needs encouragement. 
–The only money now in my bank account that will have any heavenly value is what I invest in the Kingdom and give away. 

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, help me keep my focus on my heavenly destination and not get attached to this world.  I am a stranger on earth and my home is heaven.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!