Plan On It

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20)

The relatively short letter of Philippians makes at least five references to the return of Christ and to eternity: "the day of Jesus Christ" (1:6); "the day of Christ" (1:10; 2:16); "our citizenship is in heaven" (3:20; "the Lord is at hand" (4:5).

The anticipation of Christ's return and of our dwelling eternally with Him is a motivation found again and again in Scripture. Jesus often emphasized it in His teaching, as seen in one of His last earthly encounters with His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you l will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also" (John 14:3).

No doubt these men were sad at the thought of being separated from the Messiah, and intimidated at the mission He had given them (Mark 16:15). Jesus reassured them that He would return and take them to be with Him forever. This is a promise for every believer.
 

If we're honest, we'll have to admit that we generally give more thought and preparation to vacations, outings, and dinner parties than we do to Christ's return and eternity. We treat chem in almost mythical terms, like compelling ideas wrapped in wishful thinking.

But let us be reminded by Jesus very words: "I will come again and will take you to Myself." This is more certain than whatever you have on your calendar for today. Your plans may change. His will not.

Your Life in Action: In what ways do you find the coming return of Christ and spending eternity with him to be motivating?



Devotions from: Life in Action-365-Day Devotional from Life Action Ministries