While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.–2 Cor. 4:18
The first twenty years of my ministry I spent a lot of time away from home preaching revival meetings, etc. In doing so I often found myself in unpleasant situations. The thing that kept me going was knowing my stay there would be short and I would return home after the meeting was over. At home I could feel the embrace of my wife, hear the laughter of my children, eat home-cooked meals, and sleep in my own bed. Indeed–“there’s no place like home”. That inspired me and kept me going through the days while I was away.
Knowing something good lies ahead helps us get through the difficulties we encounter enroute. That’s why I keep saying,”For the Christian, the best is always yet to come”. I believe that. And knowing it is so helps me. The anticipation of something delightful can be a great encouragement when you are facing unpleasant situations. If you only focus on your present problems it will drive you to despair. But when we know that we only have to endure for a brief time it makes matters a lot easier. For that reason we ought to think much and more about heaven. The hope of heaven can help you like nothing else that I know of. The reality of it brings great relief to God’s weary children.
Regardless of what you’re going through, if you know the Lord, things will get better, much better, they will in fact be perfect! It’s just a matter of time. If Christ is your Savior then God is your Father, heaven is your home, and the Holy Spirit is your Helper until you get there. Don’t let the hardness of the way cloud your vision and rob you of your joy. Soon your journey will end and you will be home at last. There everything will be absolute perfection. So, keep your eyes on the prize!
