BIBLE PASSAGE:
However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear
has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” – the things
God has prepared for those who love him.
(1 Corinthians 2:9)
MEDITATION:
Have you ever paused and considered the magnitude of the
blessings God has prepared for those who love Him? Of
course we don’t love Him in order to get something; we
love Him because He loves us, and because His Son gave
His life for us.
Try to imagine the best things and the best environment for you
personally. The scriptures tell us that whatever we conceive in our
minds, still does not measure up to what He has prepared for those
who love Him. In the last book of the Bible we see these words:
Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,”
for the first heaven and the first earth had
passed away, and there was no longer any sea.
(Revelation 21:1)
Whenever we pray, “Thy kingdom come”, we should know that our
prayer will be answered. It is inconceivable to the human mind, but
our best moments on earth cannot compare with what He has prepared
for those who love Him.
A new world IS coming! Heaven is described as God’s new creation
which is indescribably wonderful. It will be place of joyful celebration
without all of the ‘junk’ we see in our world today.
The paradise that man lost will be regained, but it will be much
more; it will not be the old one repaired, patched up, and made
renewed.
He who was seated on the throne said,
“I am making everything new!” Then
he said, “Write this down, for these
words are trustworthy and true.”
(Revelation 21:5)
God says, “I am making everything new”;
He doesn’t say “I will fix what is broken”.
And, He says “everything” (not ‘some things’) will be new.
Our broken and damaged bodies will be replaced with new
ones. The things that cause us heartache, worry, fears and
frustrations will not longer exist. Whatever discourages us
and brings us to tears when we are alone will not be in God’s
new world.
A government that is flawed will be replaced with a perfect
one. Cities that are plagued with crime and pollution will be
replaced with new ones where people can move about fearlessly,
and freely breathe healthy air.
Judging others unfairly will be included in the old things that
have “passed away”. The fear of a devastating illness will be gone.
No longer will we be worried about losing a loved one to death.
There will be such great joy, that there will be no jealousy, or
envy to cause problems with relationships.
We could list many more things, but we still cannot conceive
the utopia of a new heaven. However, we do know the promises
of God for those who love Him. How do we love Him? We obey
His commands and we serve Him using the spiritual gifts He
has given us.
ACTION:
Centuries ago the apostles greeted each other with the word,
“Maranatha”. It was a reminder that “The Lord is coming”.
This was their inspiration for obedience and service. It also
reminded them of their love for God and His promises.
Will your love for God qualify you to be a part of what He has
prepared? Do you love Him for what He has done, or for what
you can get from Him? Are there things you need to change in
your life in order to increase Your love for Him?
Love for God (and for others) should never be based on
expectations. Our love for Him should be our expression
of gratitude for His love for us, and for the blessings He
has already provided. How do you prove your love for
God on a daily basis?
Pray,
“Heavenly Father, constantly remind me of Your love for me.
I pray that each day I will remember how You have blessed me
and as a result, my love for You will increase daily. Help me in
my efforts to obey You and to serve You using the spiritual gifts
You have given me. Increase the joy in my heart as I recall Your
promises for those who love You.”
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Discussion
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