Daily Devotional

Apr 16, 2023 | Devotional, The Reality of Heaven

Day 3

“The hope of heaven is the most powerful force for change in the world.”

Rick Warren

The Hope and Purpose of Heaven

Read:

“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Colossians 3:1-4 (ESV)

Colossians 3:1-4 is a reminder from Paul to the believers in Colossae of their identity in Christ and their eternal destiny. Paul urges them to focus on their heavenly hope and to live in light of that hope. This passage emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly perspective and seeing our lives in the light of eternity. Our focus on heaven should not lead us to neglect our responsibilities on earth, but rather to see them in light of eternity and to live with a sense of purpose and direction. Our hope for heaven gives us a deep sense of purpose and direction, helping us to make sense of the challenges and difficulties we face in this life. As we focus on our eternal destiny, we are empowered to live with a sense of mission, knowing that our lives have eternal significance and that we are called to be agents of God’s kingdom on earth. Ultimately, Colossians 3:1-4 reminds us that our hope for heaven should be a driving force in our lives, shaping the way we think, live, and act.

Apply:

How can we keep our focus on our heavenly hope and purpose amidst the distractions of daily life?
In what ways can our hope for heaven inspire us to serve others and make a positive impact on the world?
What steps can we take to live in a way that reflects our hope for heaven?

Take Action:

Identify one practical way you can serve someone in need today, and do it with the knowledge that your actions reflect your hope for heaven.

Pray:

Lord, thank you for the hope and purpose we find in you. Help us to keep our focus on things above and to live in a way that reflects our heavenly calling. Guide us as we seek to make a positive impact on the world around us. Amen.

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