As Christians, we are “strangers and pilgrims” in this world because our true home is with God. Heaven is where God resides, and so will we eventually. The world is not the Christian’s true home; our true home is with Christ. We are here briefly, awaiting the return of Christ when He will take us to our true home in heaven. This article will highlight our authentic citizenship, our citizenship: heaven.
The Problem
We are living in a very chaotic world. There are wars with Ukraine and Russia, with Israel and Palestine, and Various terrorist groups attacking cargo ships in the Middle East. The whole Middle East is full of tension. Europe is concerned about war being at its threshold thanks to President Putin, gangs are overtaking Hatti, and Russia experienced a terror attack recently.
The moral Fiber of our nations is deteriorating at a rapid rate. The threat of civil war is everywhere. So, when are things going to turn around? When is it going to get better? Probably the most sensible question to ask is if it will get better. Chances are, it won’t. According to biblical prophecy, things will only get worse.
The Solution
So what are we to do? Is this all we have to look forward to? Things will get worse, but they will also get better. Why? Because we have a promise that they will. But before we go into this promise, let’s look at our present state and obligations according to Scripture.
1 Peter 2:11 reads:
11. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
We are passing through this world on the way to our home in heaven’s glory; therefore, we must remain as untouched as conceivable by this world’s ubiquitous sin. Peter explained that the best way to do that is to abstain from sinful desires.
Here’s the issue: because we will not escape our sinful surroundings until Christ returns, and because we still have a sinful nature that wants us to act on its desires, we will not be able to remain completely free of sin and its effects. But we can “abstain”; that is, we can put away our sinful desires by controlling them right from the start. The verb tense means to “continually keep away from.” It takes alertness and self-control to continually abstain from sinful desires. 1 Peter 5:8 reads, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” [More on the lion]
Why must we abstain? Why does it matter that we keep away from sinful desires? Because, as the Scripture expresses, those desires “war against our souls.” Once we become Christians, a battle has begun, for Satan is the enemy of Christ and His followers. The verb tense means “continually waging war.” Therefore, Christians must “continually abstain” because the evil desires are continually… waging war.
This battle will continue for the duration of our lives on this earth. The word “soul” represents an individual’s inner, spiritual quality. Our desires initiate deep within us (James 1:14); often, our sinful desires never actually become sinful actions.
Some Christians may take honor in their righteous lives yet have hearts filled with all kinds of evil thoughts and desires. Peter acknowledged that while Christians appreciate that Christ must change their lives and actions, they must also transform their inner lives.
While sinful desires may appear much less evil than sinful actions, Scripture clarifies that they can also hurt us as they war against our souls.
My friends, as you know, the Christian life is not easy. Living in this constant battle makes us weary. So what do we do? How do we survive? How do we maintain a positive attitude in light of the circumstances?
We must keep looking ahead.
We must recognize that we have more to look forward to than the world does—we have the promises of God.
The promise to focus on is God’s promise to King David. This promise is at the core of God’s plan for man.
Let’s look at this promise in 2 Samuel 7:1-17
Now it came to pass when the king was dwelling in his house, and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies all around,
2. that the king said to Nathan the prophet, “See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells inside tent curtains.”
3. Then Nathan said to the king, “Go, do all that is in your heart, for the Lord is with you.”
4. But it happened that night that the word of the Lord came to Nathan, saying,
5. “Go and tell My servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: “Would you build a house for Me to dwell in?
6. For I have not dwelt in a house since the time that I brought the children of Israel up from Egypt, even to this day, but have moved about in a tent and in a tabernacle.
7. Wherever I have moved about with all the children of Israel, have I ever spoken a word to anyone from the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd My people Israel, saying, ‘Why have you not built Me a house of cedar?'”‘
8. Now therefore, thus shall you say to My servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts: “I took you from the sheepfold, from following the sheep, to be ruler over My people, over Israel.
9. And I have been with you wherever you have gone, and have cut off all your enemies from before you, and have made you a great name, like the name of the great men who are on the earth.
10. Moreover I will appoint a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own and move no more; nor shall the sons of wickedness oppress them anymore, as previously,
11. since the time that I commanded judges to be over My people Israel, and have caused you to rest from all your enemies. Also the Lord tells you that He will make you a house.
Pay close attention to the balance of the passage.
12. “When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom.
13. He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom FOR-EVER.
14. I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. If he commits iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men.
15. But My mercy shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you.
16. And your house and your kingdom shall be established FOR-EVER before you. Your throne shall be established forever.”‘”
17. According to all these words and according to all this vision, so Nathan spoke to David.
We see in verse 2 that David desired to build a house for the Lord. But it is written in 1st Chronicles 28:3 that God did not want His temple built by a warrior. However, this does not mean that God rejected David. But to the contrary, God was preparing to do something even grander in David’s life than granting him the status of building the Temple.
David was so blessed! This Passage contains an astounding promise from God to David known as the Davidic Covenant. Not only did he bless David by taking him from herding sheep to ruling His people and overcoming his enemies, but he also promised him a kingdom. A Kingdom that will last—forever.
Here, we see that when we make a request to the Lord, and He says no, fret not because He has something more extraordinary in store. Accepting God’s no requires just as much faith as carrying out his yes.
David’s earthly dynasty ended four centuries later. Yet, Jesus Christ, a direct descendant of David, ultimately fulfilled this promise. Matthew 1:1 reads: “The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.”
Matthew was writing to the Jews, and he began by revealing that Jesus was a successor of Abraham, the father of all Jews, and a direct descendant of David, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah’s line.
Let’s look at one of these Old Testament prophecies found in the prophetic Psalms 89. This Psalm repeats God’s covenant promise to David: It reads in verses 1-4:
I will sing of the mercies of the LORD for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.
2. For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.
3. I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David my servant,
4. Thy seed will I establish for ever, and build up thy throne to all generations. Selah.
What we are observing is God’s building program. God is building his Kingdom here on earth, starting with David’s throne. Those who join this Kingdom today in Spirit and truth will be on the ground floor of the most significant building platform ever imagined!
The throne was passed from David to his son, Solomon, to Jesus Christ. To repeat 2nd Samuel 17 & verse 13, it says, “He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.”
Many believed that when Israel was defeated and carried away by her enemies, that was the end of God’s promise. But the same Psalm 89:29-37 repeats God’s covenant to David; it says:
29. His seed also will I make to endure for ever, and his throne as the days of heaven.
30. If his children forsake my law, and walk not in my judgments;
31. If they break my statutes, and keep not my commandments;
32. Then will I visit their transgression with the rod, and their iniquity with stripes.
33. Nevertheless my lovingkindness will I not utterly take from him, nor suffer my faithfulness to fail.
34. My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.
35. Once have I sworn by my holiness that I will not lie unto David.
36. His seed shall endure forever, and his throne as the sun before me.
37. It shall be established for ever as the moon, and as a faithful witness in heaven. Selah.
God keeps His promises no matter what—He kept His promise right through to Jesus Christ—even when He was transgressed.
Let’s look at the announcement of Jesus Christ to Mary in Luke 1:30-33:
30. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
31. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
32. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
33. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his Kingdom there shall be no end.
Our True Home
Remember the promise of 2 Samuel 7:16. This promise was fulfilled with the arrival of Jesus, a direct descendant of David. When it mentions “His father David,” it refers to David, his ancestor. Jesus was born in the line of David and thus to be a king to reign over the house of Jacob, which refers to God’s people. This house was initially understood to be the twelve tribes, but later, it was revealed to be much more. His Kingdom will be eternal, a kingdom with no end.
Now, this is our home; this is where our citizenship lies and this Kingdom is what we must strive for—our heavenly Kingdom.
We must keep looking ahead!
The road to heaven is always under construction, full of potholes and detours. But we must endure. Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 24:12-13 regarding the last days:
12. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
13. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Sin will be even more ubiquitous, raging everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold.
False teaching and loose morals bring a specifically destructive spiritual ailment — the loss of true love for God and others. Love grows cold when sin directs our attention to ourselves and our desires.
This is why Peter says: “abstain from fleshly lusts.”
So let us remember that whatever we go through on this earth will be worth the reward we will receive in the end. 2 Corinthians 4:17 says, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;”
The troubles in this world are an extremely light load compared to the “eternal weight of glory.” No finite number of years can even compare to the length of infinite time.
In the meantime, here we are as “strangers and pilgrims. Time passes quickly, and we are running a race that the witnesses before us ran. The writer of Hebrews wrote in Hebrews 12:1-2
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
2. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
What really matters — what is eternal and permanent — cannot be seen, touched, or measured. Only with the eyes of faith can we look . . . at what cannot be seen. Only with eyes of faith can we begin to understand, with God’s help, the eternal significance of our actions.
A Christian’s hope is not in this world. A Christian’s hope is not in the power and wealth that can be accumulated on earth. Instead, a Christian’s hope is in Christ.
Jesus said in Matthew 6:19-20
19. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Christ will reign for eternity—now in his spiritual Kingdom and later on earth, in the new Jerusalem (Rev 21).
Let’s look at what it says in Rev. 11:15:
And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign FOR EVER AND EVER.
This verse reflects the sounding of the seventh trumpet announcing the arrival of Jesus, the King. At this point, there is no turning back. The impending judgments will be complete in their destruction. God will unleash His full wrath on the evil world that refuses to turn to Him (Revelation 9:20-21). Then His Kingdom will be established, and He will rule For Ever!
[Zechariah 14:8-9]
Paul described the change that will occur with those who love the Lord. He said in 1 Cor. 15:51-52
51. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
52. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
Let us not be sorrowful for the loss of our loved ones, especially those who loved the Lord. Paul wrote to the Thessalonians in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
13. But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.
14. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. NKJV
So, my brothers and sisters, we must look ahead and keep our eyes on the prize. We must not allow the weight of the world and our fleshly desires and concerns to weigh us down to dysfunction. I pray that we do not allow our fleshly desires to cause us—to miss out—on our destination, our heavenly home. We must continue to run the race set before us—carrying on the will of God.
So we must remember what the Scripture says in Galatians 6:9
And let us not be weary in WELL doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Keep…looking… Ahead!
Amen
You are welcome to leave questions, comments, and concerns below.
Blessings!
With all that is happening right now in our world, it is comforting to know that we can look to God for comfort. I agree with you 100% that there is a war for our souls. I have experienced unfortunately what you are talking about regarding Christians that have hearts full of hate. Externally, they seem like a great person, but their actions in private are anything but good. Believing in God’s promises takes faith, hope and patience. I am in a situation now where I am needing to abide by everything you’ve stated. Thank you for this amazing reminder that God is always with us.
Ok, Misty – I pray that all goes well with your situation.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi Nathaniel,
This article beautifully reminds us of the hope and promise we have as Christians: our true citizenship in heaven. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, it’s uplifting to reflect on the eternal Kingdom we belong to through Christ. The emphasis on staying vigilant against sinful desires and maintaining a steadfast faith resonates deeply, especially as we navigate the challenges of life.
I appreciate how the article ties together scriptural promises, like the Davidic Covenant and the ultimate reign of Jesus, showing God’s unwavering faithfulness. It’s a powerful reminder to keep our eyes on what truly matters—our eternal home with God.
Thank you for such a profound and encouraging message. It’s a wonderful call to focus on faith, endurance, and the joy awaiting us beyond this world.
Cheers
John
Greetings, John – Yes, we must keep our focus on the words of Jesus recorded in Matt 6:19-20 which reads, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:”
We must remember that heaven is our home.
Thanks for commenting!
I really loved how you emphasized the idea of living with a heavenly perspective. It’s such a comforting thought that, no matter what happens here, our true home is in a place of peace and love.I often think about how this perspective can influence our daily lives. When we remember that we’re citizens of heaven, it encourages us to be kinder and more compassionate to those around us. It’s like having a guiding light in our interactions!What are some simple ways you think we can bring this heavenly mindset into our everyday lives? I’d really enjoy hearing your thoughts on that!
Greetings, Maxon – We can bring the heavenly mindset into our lives by praying for the Holy Spirit to strengthen us and keep our focus on our heavenly home. This action will enable us not to let the world influence us otherwise and live in peace. As the Scripture encourages us in Phil 4:6-7
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.NIV
It behooves us not to worry about things we cannot change but only to pray.
Thanks for commenting!
The exhortation to “keep looking ahead” is particularly poignant. It challenges believers to live faithfully, resisting the pull of worldly distractions and fleshly desires, and instead, to set their eyes on the eternal Kingdom. The reminder that God’s plans often exceed our expectations, as seen in David’s story, inspires trust in His sovereignty and faithfulness.
your article does an excellent job of blending prophecy, theology, and practical application, making it a thought-provoking and uplifting read for those yearning to align their lives with their heavenly calling.
Blessings to all who are striving to run this race with endurance!
Amen, JealousLI! Thanks for commenting!
Hello Nathaniel!
This article provides such a refreshing perspective on our heavenly citizenship! I appreciate how you highlighted the importance of focusing on our eternal home while living in this world. The reminder that our true identity lies in Christ, not in earthly status or nationality, is powerful and grounding.
I’m curious—how do you personally stay focused on your heavenly citizenship amidst the distractions of daily life? Are there specific practices or scriptures you turn to for encouragement?
Thank you for such a thoughtful and uplifting message! It’s a great reminder of where our true hope lies.
Angela M 🙂
Greetings, Angela – I stay focused on our heavenly citizenship through the Scriptures. Such as the words of Jesus recorded in Matt 6:19-20 which reads, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:”
We must remember that heaven is our home.
Also, Phil 4:6-7,
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.NIV
It behooves us not to worry about things we cannot change but only to pray. We must pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to strengthen us so that we do not get overwhelmed by the world and stay focused on our heavenly goal.
This is my approach, and I hope this helps.
Thanks for commenting!
Hello, Your take on our true home being with God is both comforting and inspiring. It’s a great reminder that we’re just passing through this chaotic world, and our ultimate destination is with Christ. The way you connect current global issues with biblical prophecy is really thought-provoking. How do you personally stay focused on your faith and maintain a positive outlook amidst all the chaos in the world? I’d love to hear your thoughts!Thank you,Jay
Greetings, Jay – I stay focused on our heavenly citizenship through the Scriptures. Such as the words of Jesus recorded in Matt 6:19-20 which reads, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:”
We must never forget that heaven is our home.
Also, Phil 4:6-7,
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.NIV
It behooves us not to worry about things we cannot change but only to pray. We must pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to strengthen us so that we do not get overwhelmed by the world and stay focused on our heavenly goal. What I cannot change, I leave to God
Thanks for commenting!
This is such an encouraging and insightful reflection on our heavenly citizenship! It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how chaotic the world gets, our true home and hope are with Christ. I especially appreciated the emphasis on God’s faithfulness to His promises, as seen in the Davidic Covenant and fulfilled in Jesus. It’s comforting to know that even when circumstances seem bleak, God’s plan is unchanging and eternal. Let’s keep our eyes on heaven and live each day with the assurance of His promises. Thank you for this uplifting reminder of where our true focus should be
Amen, Naresh – Thanks for commenting!
This article provides a profound reminder of the eternal perspective we should embrace as Christians. The emphasis on our heavenly citizenship and the responsibility it carries is both inspiring and humbling. It’s easy to get caught up in the challenges and distractions of daily life, but this message encourages us to realign our focus on God’s Kingdom and live as ambassadors of Christ in our earthly journey.I appreciate how the article connects scripture with practical application, making it relatable and actionable. How do you think we can balance our earthly responsibilities while staying rooted in the awareness of our heavenly citizenship? This is something I’ve been reflecting on, and I’d love to hear your thoughts.Thank you for this uplifting and thought-provoking piece!
Greetings, Alan – As we go about our earthly responsibilities, we must make time to study the Word of God. The Scriptures direct and encourage us to stay focused on our heavenly home (e.g., Matt. 6:19-20, Philippians 4:6-7). We must also pray for strength so that we are not overwhelmed and distracted by the worldly actions around us. We can’t do it alone, so we must use the tools God has supplied to be overcomers (Ephesians 6:10-18). They Work!
Thanks for commenting!
This is a very interesting view of Christians being citizens of heaven, something that I have not really considered before. I do find it confusing though that you say we are here in this world as “strangers and pilgrims”. Pilgrims I can understand, as we can spread the word and the work of God.But why strangers? Who are we strangers to? To non-Christians? Surely as Christians we are not strangers to God or other believers? Please can you explain. Thank you.
Greetings, LineCowley – Great question! Strangers and pilgrims are from the Scripture I indexed in the article, 1 Peter 2:11, which reads, “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;” Those who belong to Christ are strangers and passing through earth, bound for heaven. The Greek word translated as strangers is parepidemois, which means a visitor staying briefly in a foreign land. The world is not the Christian’s true home; our real home is with Christ. We are here temporarily, awaiting the return of Christ when He will take us to our true home in heaven.
Peter is reminding Christians of their true status and encouraging them to abstain from the fleshly lusts that are so prevalent in this world – to maintain their status as strangers and pilgrims.
Reflect in part on what Jesus said during His prayer for the disciples in John 17:15-17, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.
NIV
This verse applies today in that true Christians are followers and disciples of Christ, and they are in the world but not of the world. Therefore, they are strangers in the world.
Thanks for commenting and your insightful question!
This article beautifully encapsulates the essence of Christian hope and the eternal perspective that believers are called to maintain. In a world rife with chaos and moral decay, the reminder that our true citizenship lies in heaven is both comforting and empowering.The emphasis on abstaining from sinful desires as a means of spiritual warfare resonates deeply, highlighting the importance of inner transformation alongside outward actions. The biblical promises, particularly the Davidic Covenant, remind us that God’s faithfulness endures through generations, culminating in the eternal reign of Christ.As we navigate life’s challenges, the call to “keep looking ahead” serves as a vital encouragement. By focusing on the eternal weight of glory that awaits us, we can endure present trials with hope and purpose. This perspective not only strengthens our faith but also motivates us to live righteously, reflecting the values of our heavenly home in our daily lives.In essence, this article is a powerful reminder that, despite the turbulence of our times, our ultimate hope and identity are secure in Christ, urging us to remain steadfast in our journey as “strangers and pilgrims” on this earth.
Amen, Joe – Many thanks for commenting!
This was a very interesting read for me.While I do not personally consider myself a religious person, I find the concept of a deeper connection beyond the physical world quite fascinating.I have often thought about what it means for people to hold such strong beliefs about a spiritual home. What gives believers the confidence to fully go for this idea of heaven without real proof? I respect the faith required to hold onto that belief, especially in a world that feels quite uncertain at the moment.Though my viewpoint may different from other people, I can understand how focusing on a higher purpose or ultimate destination might bring hope amid the chaos of daily life.I would be interested to hear your thoughts on how someone like me, who thinks more toward seeing evidence, could approach understanding such a perspective.Thank you for sharing, it has given me something to think about.Chris
Greetings, Chris – The evidence is in the Scriptures. I suggest reading and meditating on these Scriptures, for starters: Matthew 24:3-8 (read further if inclined) and 2 Timothy 3:1-6 and see what looks familiar as evidence of the last days and the return of Christ to take His followers to their heavenly home. If you have any questions or further comments, my email address is miles77.nm@gmail.com
Thanks for commenting!
This post beautifully captures the essence of Christian hope and the enduring promise of God’s Kingdom. It reminds us of our true identity as “strangers and pilgrims” in a temporary world, emphasizing that our ultimate home is with Christ in heaven. The reflection on the challenges of earthly life—chaos, sin, and moral decay—highlights the necessity of spiritual vigilance and self-control. Through the lens of Scripture, the post reassures us that while life on earth may be tumultuous, God’s promises are unwavering and eternal.The inclusion of the Davidic Covenant and its fulfillment in Christ demonstrates God’s faithfulness and the continuity of His divine plan. The encouragement to “keep looking ahead” serves as a powerful reminder that our struggles pale in comparison to the glory awaiting us in God’s eternal Kingdom. This message of hope and perseverance is both inspiring and deeply comforting for believers striving to live a Christ-centered life.
Amen, Andrejs – Thanks for commenting!
I’m not religious, but there’s just something so soothing about this post. It’s a painting of hope-like no matter how messy the world gets, there’s something bigger waiting for us. Whether you believe in heaven or not, the idea of being on a journey, heading somewhere meaningful, is kind of comforting.The part that got me was the “strangers and pilgrims” part of this world. It’s like saying we’re just passing through, that all the chaos around us isn’t permanent. Sometimes, life feels overwhelming-wars, disasters, just the day-to-day grind-and this perspective reminds you to focus on what really matters.I like the way it says, in a nutshell, be strong, even when it is hard. Sure, it speaks in terms of sin and spiritual battles, but you could just as well apply that to the challenges we all face-bad habits, self-doubt, or the pressure to fit in. It’s about not letting those things pull you off course, about keeping your eyes on something better.Even for me, not believing in heaven, the thought that maybe something is waiting for us out there-something good-just feels hopeful. And let’s be real; we could all use a little hope these days. Be it faith, be it purpose, be it something to make the struggle worth it, it is nice to think there’s more to this life than what’s in front of our faces.I don’t know if it is true, but I like it.
Greetings, Leo – It looks like you’re connecting with your spiritual self. We are just passing through to an eternal destiny. How we live our lives determines on which side of that eternity we’ll experience—either eternal life or eternal death. We must hold onto our heavenly hope. Think about this verse in Titus 1:2, “In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;”
Keep hope alive!
Thanks for commenting!
This blog beautifully captures the essence of Christian hope and perseverance. It eloquently reminds us that our true citizenship lies in heaven, and our time on earth is a journey of faith and preparation. The integration of Scripture highlights God’s promises and encourages believers to abstain from worldly desires while focusing on eternal treasures.The reflection on the Davidic Covenant and its fulfillment in Jesus Christ serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness. Moreover, the call to endure trials and maintain hope amidst worldly chaos resonates deeply, especially in today’s turbulent times. This piece inspires readers to stay vigilant, grounded in faith, and forward-looking toward our eternal home with Christ.
Amen, Herman – Thanks for commenting!
This is a very good article. I can relate to a lot of teachings a bible references you highlighted. My sermon the weekend was to prepare the way of the Lord that was preached by John whilst in the desert. The question now is my heart prepared for the coming of the Lord.You’ve beautifully highlighted how chaotic and challenging the world can be. How do you recommend balancing the practical responsibilities of living in this world while keeping our focus on our heavenly citizenship?Your emphasis on abstaining from sinful desires and being vigilant against spiritual attacks was very insightful. What practical strategies would you suggest for maintaining spiritual alertness in our daily lives?
Greetings Raymond – The strategies I suggest for maintaining spiritual alertness are praying for the Holy Spirit to grant us wisdom, strength, discernment, and studying the Scriptures. As the scripture says in Ps. 119:105, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” If we follow it, the Word of God is our guiding light, as highlighted in Ps. 119:11, which reads, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
We must not only read the Word but allow it to penetrate our hearts so that we can not only read it but do what it says (James 1:22).
Thanks for commenting!
The Bible indeed tells us that things will get worse before they get better. In these times, it is crucial to remember that we are called to fight the good fight of faith throughout our lives. Despite the worsening situation around us, it is our duty to remain positive and affirm God’s words. Our minds are a battlefield, constantly at war against evil through our thoughts and spoken words. God invites us to draw closer to Him and seek His presence daily, empowering us to overcome the enemy’s schemes. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, we find the strength to navigate this world’s chaos. The power of God’s word helps us focus on His promises and our future home in Heaven.Your article highlighted several scriptures worth rereading and reciting, as they nourish our spirit. We all face daily struggles in various areas, and no one is perfect. However, we have a choice: we can either worry and be consumed by negativity, or we can choose to surround ourselves with positive, affirming words and dwell on God’s promises, becoming better citizens of Heaven. Thank you for sharing your insights on what it means to be citizens of Heaven.
Amen, Cydney – Thanks for commenting!
Here it is emphasized that Christians are only transients on this earth, because their true home is in heaven with God. The author emphasizes the importance of abstaining from sinful desires and constant vigilance, because Christians face a continuous spiritual struggle. The article provides comfort and hope in the promise of eternal life with Christ.
Thanks for commenting, Slavisa.
Hey Nathanial, I’ve been teaching the bible for the past 10 years primarily teaching the hope in Jesus’ glorious second coming! This article offers a powerful reminder that, as Christians, our true citizenship is in heaven, not on earth. In a world full of chaos and distractions, it’s easy to forget the eternal perspective we are called to maintain. How do we, as Christians, effectively balance living in this world while continually focusing on the promise of our eternal home? The idea that our struggles and sacrifices here are temporary, yet lead to eternal glory, brings both comfort and conviction. What are some practical ways we can remind ourselves daily of this heavenly citizenship?
Greetings, Zachary – My suggestion for reminding ourselves of our heavenly citizenship is to make time to study the Scriptures daily or as often as possible. Scripture informs and encourages us. For example, when we are going through trials and tribulations, 2 Cor 4:16-18 reads:
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. NKJV
A Christian’s hope is not in this world. This hope is why Paul encourages us to walk by faith, not by sight. (2 Cor. 5:7). The things we go through on earth are “temporary “ and “light”
in comparison to what we receive in eternity.
Also, we must pray for strength and to overcome whatever we face. Phil 4:6-7 reads,
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. NIV
More practical advice from the Scriptures is found in Phil 4:6: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.” NIV
We must monitor what we spend time thinking about and what we fill our minds with?
Thanks for commenting!
We as Christians need to remember that, sometimes we get caught up in this world with our plans, and dreams and while that is good we need to remember that this world is not our home. All we are doing is passing through. “Jesus said to occupy until He comes but while we are here we also need to pray and minister to people.
Amen, Norman – Many thanks for commenting!
What a thought-provoking and uplifting article! I really appreciate how you explored the concept of heavenly citizenship in a way that feels both deeply spiritual and personally relatable. The way you connected biblical teachings to everyday life was inspiring, reminding readers of the higher purpose and eternal hope that comes with faith. Your use of scripture was well-placed, reinforcing the message without overwhelming the flow of the article.
I appreciate your comments, Bob – Thanks for commenting!
Hello Nathaniel,What an article! I too am a Christian. And I also believe that our life in this world is a daily struggle. It is a test for us, how can we be more like Jesus Christ! We are all sinners, all we can do is the right things and do it the best we can. Compared to the grand scheme of things, we are on earth for a very short while. What is ninety to a hundred years compared to tens of thousands of years (eternity). I consider earth to be hell in light of the worldwide events of the last century or more. And especially considering the events of the last decade. The world is a mess, the world leaders are trying their best to make it better, but they cannot make everyone happy. It is the old adage, take one step forward and two steps back. We Christians can see through our faith the end result of our lives and that is the promise that Jesus died on the cross to pay for sins, so that we may enter into Heaven, when we have our earthly death. Really, there is no death, just life. And it will be a wonderful life in Heaven when we go home.All the best,Mark
Hi Mark – I wonder. Are the world leaders really attempting to make the world better? Maybe some, while others are looking out for their own interests. But as you say, we can only do our best to do the right things until our time on earth is up.
Thanks for commenting!