What a beautiful glimpse into what we’ll see when God’s kingdom is fully revealed! The book of Revelation is full of imagery and prophecy with messages for all believers. As a whole, the book can be very difficult to read and understand. This passage, however, quite clearly represents what is to come.
The author, one of Jesus’ own disciples, John, has been privileged to see many visions he’s been asked to share with others. Here, John describes God’s kingdom, complete with a throne. The one sitting on the throne promises to make all things new.
How refreshing it will be to wipe away all the hurts of this world. When we don’t think the world can get any more evil or hateful, something happens to rock us to the core. Thankfully, we have verses like this to redirect and remind us of what is yet to come. God himself will “wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” It’s hard for us to imagine such peace, but boy, does it help to try when feeling overwhelmed.
Life as we know it will be no more. Sometimes I get lost thinking about how different things will be. The old earth, the earth I’m part of right now, will disappear. What does that look like? I find myself treasuring the things around me just a little bit more. Each item seems to trigger a flood of memories. But those are just things, and I’ve learned as a missionary that having “things” is a precious commodity for which I am beyond grateful.
Dark times are here. Do you ever find yourself, like I do, feeling depleted or disillusioned by the world’s narrative? At times, we see lights shining in the darkness. But often, my heart literally feels like it is breaking. There are so many hot-button items challenging the ideals of how God wants us to live and be in this world. The earth isn’t passing away just yet. How far are we likely, as a people, to stray from God’s loving arms?
What can we do to make sure others don’t miss out on the future God intends for them? These verses inspire us to want to draw closer to God while our planet is still turning. We can do that when we stay focused on God, read His Word regularly, and be in constant communication (prayer) with our God, the one who wants the best for us and loves us unconditionally. I’d love to help you stay in the Word with the Devotions on the Go! Series covering every verse in the Bible. Check out the library here.
Isaiah 11:9 gives us another glimpse into that perfect and safe kingdom. The prophecy reads, “Nothing will hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain, for as the waters fill the sea, so the earth will be filled with people who know the Lord.” How glorious it will be to find ourselves in the presence of God, surrounded by fellow followers. Attending large worship events can give us only a sense of what that might be like. Since not a lot of concerts come my way, I watch a lot of replays. In my opinion, nothing beats standing shoulder to shoulder with a crowd of worshippers.
That’s what God’s kingdom is all about. We will one day meet our Maker and be in relationship with only those who love the Lord. Imagine no more being bullied for or having to defend our faith. In God’s presence, we can only celebrate and enjoy with no worries or challenges. The kingdom of God is something I want to be part of.
Let’s pray. Father, thank you for creating me just as I am. You have prepared me for this moment, and I look forward to the final victory and all the blessings you have in store for me. Help me to be mindful of the people who do not know these promises yet. Give me the eyes I need to see the needs of others and the compassion and love to help them see you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
