“Nature is the key to unlock the treasure house of health. … Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water, trust in divine power—these are the true remedies.” Ministry of Healing, page 269
Introduction
Health and nature, as understood through the lens of the Bible, the writings of Sis. Ellen G. White, and references from the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, highlight the interconnectedness of our well-being with the natural world.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of caring for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This includes practicing self-control, avoiding harmful substances, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
According to Sis. White in Counsels on Diet and Foods, page 16: “The body should be regarded as a temple of the Holy Spirit, and we should educate ourselves to care for it intelligently.”
From the Ministry of Healing, page 241: “He who formed the earth and the heavens, who upholds and governs the universe, is to be recognized in every tree, in every leaf. There is a living power in the creations of God—a power that cannot be found in the works of man or nature.”
“How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom, you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” Psalm 104:24
Spending time outdoors and enjoying fresh air and sunlight are seen as beneficial for both physical and mental health. Balancing physical activity with proper rest is essential for maintaining good health.
Nature is viewed as a source of healing and restoration, both physically and spiritually.
In the book Education, page 250, Sis. White wrote, “In His [God’s] created works, He is ever speaking to us. God speaks to us through the things of nature.”
Activity/Group Discussion Questions
How does our physical health impact our spiritual well-being? How can we prioritize taking care of our bodies as part of our Christian faith?
How does spending time in nature affect our mental and emotional health? Share personal experiences or examples of how nature has brought restoration and peace to your life.
What are some practical ways we can incorporate more outdoor activities into our routines to promote better physical and mental health? How can we encourage others to engage with nature regularly?
Reflecting on the Sabbath as a day of rest, how can we make intentional efforts to disconnect from technology and spend time in nature on this day? What benefits can we gain from observing the Sabbath in this way?
How does our connection with nature deepen our understanding of God’s creation and His character? Share examples of how nature reveals God’s wisdom, beauty, and power.
Discuss the concept of stewardship as it relates to the environment and our responsibility to care for nature. How can we actively practice good stewardship in our daily lives?
In what ways can our church community promote a culture of health and nature appreciation? Brainstorm ideas for activities, programs, or initiatives that can encourage health and nature-related practices among the youth and the broader church family.
How can we advocate for the preservation and conservation of natural resources as Christians? Discuss the biblical mandate for environmental stewardship and brainstorm practical ways we can contribute to sustainable living.
Highlights and Conclusion
Our physical health impacts our spiritual well-being as our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). By taking care of our bodies through healthy choices and habits, we can better serve and glorify God.
Biblical principles regarding diet and nutrition emphasize a plant-based diet (Genesis 1:29). Ellen G. White further expands on the benefits of a balanced and wholesome diet, emphasizing fruits, grains, nuts, and vegetables (Counsels on Diet and Foods, Ministry of Healing).
Spending time in nature can have a positive impact on mental and emotional health. Being in nature allows us to witness God’s creation firsthand, experience His peace, and find solace from the distractions of the world.
Practical ways to incorporate more outdoor activities can include going for walks or hikes, participating in nature-based sports, camping, gardening, or simply spending time in a park or garden. Encouraging others to engage with nature can be done through organizing group outings or sharing personal experiences.
Observing the Sabbath as a day of rest includes setting aside time for nature walks, outdoor worship, or quiet contemplation in nature. Disconnecting from technology and immersing ourselves in God’s creation can help us refocus our minds on Him.
Nature reveals God’s wisdom, beauty, and power, showing us His creativity and provision. Through observing the intricacies of nature, such as the delicate balance of ecosystems or the diversity of species, we can gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and His care for His creation.
Stewardship of the environment is a responsibility given to us by God. We should actively seek ways to reduce waste, conserve resources, and care for the Earth. This includes practicing recycling, minimizing pollution, and supporting sustainable practices.
The church community can promote a culture of health and nature appreciation by organizing nature outings, hosting health seminars, incorporating nature-based activities into Sabbath programs, and encouraging community gardens or initiatives for environmental preservation.
Personal challenges in prioritizing health and nature may include time constraints, convenience-driven lifestyles, or lack of awareness. By supporting and encouraging one another, we can share practical tips, accountability, and resources to overcome these challenges and make positive changes.
As Christians, we are called to be stewards of the Earth. We can advocate for environmental preservation through education, participation in community clean-up activities, and supporting initiatives that promote sustainability. This aligns with the biblical mandate to care for God’s creation and ensure its well-being for future generations.
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:1, 2).
“Therefore ‘Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.’ ‘I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty’” (2 Corinthians 6:17, 18).
Fundamental Beliefs:
Christian Behavior: “For the Spirit to recreate in us the character of our Lord we involve ourselves only in those things that will produce Christlike purity, health, and joy in our lives. This means that our amusement and entertainment should meet the highest standards of Christian taste and beauty.”
“We are to engage in whatever brings our thoughts and bodies into the discipline of Christ, who desires our wholesomeness, joy, and goodness.”
Introduction
Today, I want us to dive deep into a topic that greatly affects our young people—the influence of social media, media, and entertainment on our youth. In this digital age, it is crucial for us to understand the impact these platforms have on their lives and how we can guide them to navigate these currents wisely. Let us turn to God’s Word and seek His wisdom as we explore this important subject together.
Recently, Nielsen took a look at today’s American teen, raised in an age dominated by media choices like never before, from the Internet to cable channels to Web-connected devices galore. Statistics say that this generation is watching more television and movies than ever before. What can be said about a generation of young people who spends more time on the couch than anywhere else?
Social media platforms, movies, music, and other forms of entertainment have a widespread influence on the lives of our youth. They have the power to shape opinions, values, and behavior which cannot be underestimated. We must recognize both the positive and negative impacts of media in their lives.
The Challenges Faced by the Youth
While these platforms offer many opportunities for connection and engagement, they also present unique challenges that can impact their spiritual growth and well-being.
Many forms of media often promote values that contradict our Christian beliefs and pose moral and spiritual dangers. Exposure to these explicit contents, materialism, and secular worldviews can erode their spiritual foundation of the youth, and even adults.
The curated nature of social media can create a false sense of perfection and accomplishment. The youth may compare their lives to the highlight reels of others, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
The pursuit of likes, followers, and comments can become a measure of self-worth and seeking validation. Constant validation-seeking can be emotionally draining and distract from authentic relationships and personal growth.
The youth may feel pressured to conform to societal trends or engage in risky behaviors to fit in online. Influences from online communities and influencers can shape their beliefs and actions.
The vastness of the internet exposes the youth to explicit, violent, or harmful content. Inappropriate content can negatively impact their values, worldview, and spiritual growth.
Excessive screen time can lead to a preoccupation with social media and entertainment, causing a neglect of responsibilities and real-life interactions. Distraction from important tasks, including academics and spiritual practices, can hinder personal growth and development.
Failure to manage time and priorities. Excessive use of social media and entertainment can distract our youth from personal relationships, spiritual growth, and involvement in church activities.
Constant exposure to others’ activities and experiences can create a fear of missing out. FOMO can lead to a sense of restlessness and discontentment, hindering the ability to be present and appreciate the blessings of the current moment.
Social media provides a platform for cyberbullying, hate speech, and online harassment. The youth may face emotional and psychological distress due to negative interactions and comments. Continuous exposure to negative online experiences can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. The youth may struggle with maintaining a healthy balance between virtual and real-world relationships.
Activity/Group Discussion Questions
Group congregation into smaller groups according to seating arrangements or according to age/class. You can have the form below, printed beforehand. Assign a group leader to each group and let them answer the form below.
Group Discussion Questions:
How do the things you do, listen to, and watch reflect the life of Christ?
How has social media and entertainment influenced your life, both positively and negatively? Share specific examples.
How do you filter the “influences”? How do you guard your heart?
What are some common challenges you face when it comes to filtering influences on social media and entertainment? How do you navigate these challenges?
How do you define your identity and self-worth in a digital world that often promotes comparison and validation-seeking? What strategies do you use to maintain a healthy self-image?
What impact do you think social media and entertainment have on your mental health and overall well-being? How do you prioritize your mental health while engaging with digital platforms?
What are the negative and positive impacts of social media and entertainment on the youth today?
Create a plan/program to use social media as a tool for evangelism or tool for ministry.
Highlights and Conclusion
An interesting idea exists in the world today. The idea is that somehow we are not connected to the things we put in our minds. We know this is not true when it comes to the things we eat. The poorer our diet, the more unhealthy we become. The same is true when it comes to those things we put in our brains.
You might have seen the commercials about “your brain on drugs.” However, could we ask ourselves the same question about the time we spend on our couches watching TV, as opposed to being outdoors, or working on our minds, bodies, and our relationship with God? I think we can! That means we have a job to do, and that job is to guard ourselves from what the world would have us put in our minds every day.
Sounds tough, and it can be. But it is important for us to try to separate ourselves from the identity that the world would want to give us.
The world, modern media, or whatever you want to call it does not care about you or me! It cares only about itself, and making sure there is enough money to continue itself. That means you have incredible control.
All you have to do is decide to “opt out” of what the world wants you to buy. Simply “go on strike” to what the media wants you to identify with. In this way you show them that you are not the mindless drone they think you are. What a blow to the way the media thinks you, a teenager, will react. Wouldn’t it feel nice to show that you have some control over your life?
“Our recreations should not be scenes of senseless mirth, taking the form of the nonsensical” (Ellen G. White, Messages to Young People, p. 364).
The reason this is important to you is that you are in control of what goes into and out of your brain. That’s right! Everything you see, you choose to see. Everything you listen to, you choose to listen to. What goes in, stays in.
This puts a huge responsibility on us to guard ourselves from what the world is selling us. Of course, not all media is bad; however, the questions you need to ask yourself are these: “Do I make the best use of my time, energies, and skills when I watch TV?”; “Do I honor God when I watch that TV show or program?”; “What do I have to gain from choosing that form of entertainment?”; “Does it benefit anyone else if I watch a movie, TV program, video game, etc.?” If you can’t answer these questions, or you have never thought of them before, then it is time for you to begin to think about them.
“Your last thought at night, your first thought in the morning, should be of Him in whom is centered your hope of eternal life” (Ellen G. White, Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 666).
God asks us to be different from the world in order that we may reflect His character. Life is precious, and we are to make a difference in the way we live. Our habits, our choices, our attitudes, everything we do and say, needs to be in harmony with the life of Christ.
We are constantly being faced with choices. From what food to eat for lunch to what show to spend your time watching. Obviously there are shows that are not worthy of your time. Often we don’t think of our time as valuable. That is seen when we spend a majority of our time watching and listening to things that are not uplifting.
Just because something is entertaining does not mean it is something we should be watching. Most of the time the good doesn’t outweigh the bad when sifting through different media in order to find the redeeming qualities. Yet what is objectionable is toxic even if taken in very small quantities. Have you ever asked yourself if it is worth risking your salvation in exchange for a little entertainment?
“[The true followers of Christ] will shun places of worldly amusement because they find no Jesus there—no influence which will make them heavenly-minded and increase their growth in grace” (Ellen G. White, Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 328).
It has been said that as Christians we approach this world with the eyes and ears of Christ. That is a great responsibility. Television, movies, music—they impact our lives every day. You may not think they are all bad. But how do we as Christians evaluate the media?
We have to become aware of what God is saying to us. His Word gives us the basis on which to form our values. Then our values guide us in deciding what we should watch and what we should not watch; what we will and what we won’t expose ourselves to. What does it have to do with you? They are your eyes and ears, but they also belong to Christ.
“There is great need of temperance in amusements, as in every other pursuit. And the character of these amusements should be carefully and thoroughly considered” (Ellen G. White, The Adventist Home, p. 512).
You don’t have to be part of the majority who choose such a self-destructive lifestyle. You are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14), and you have received from the Creator free will to choose how you live your life.
The Biblical Call to Discernment
Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to the patterns of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Our youth must develop a discerning spirit, filtering media content through the lens of God’s truth.
Therefore, choose daily to bring honor to God in each decision you make. Choose to feed your mind only with information that will elevate your thoughts and inspire your heart to achieve the great plans that God has for your life.
You can do this if you rely only on Him. He will help you avoid and reject everything that is rubbish. If you choose Jesus daily as your guide, you will desire to watch, listen to, say, and do only things that He would want for you. With right choices, you will grow closer and closer to God’s ideal for you and to the heart of Jesus.
Nurturing Discernment and Resilience
Be rooted in God’s word. Psalm 119:105 reminds us that God’s Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, 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.” Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)
We have no time to devote to cheap, worthless reading matter. Minds thus occupied have no time for meditation, for reflection, for prayer, or for the contemplation of heavenly things. Satan is constantly preparing inducements to attract minds away from the solemn work of preparing for scenes just in the future.” Testimonies for the Church,” Vol. 1, p. 325
“In watching television, you will see represented before you the characters of men and women, which will have an influence to make men and women who act as they see represented. Let the youth be taught to learn to read the word of God. Let them be directed to good books.” The Adventist Home,” p. 440
Encouraging critical thinking. Proverbs 2:3-5 encourages us to seek wisdom and understanding. Teach our youth to critically analyze media content, identifying potential biases and evaluating its alignment with biblical principles.
Promote mentoring and accountability. Elders, parents, and church leaders must play an active role in mentoring and guiding our youth. Providing a safe space for open discussions, offering guidance, and holding them accountable can help them make wise media choices.
Embracing the Power of Positive Influence by using Social Media as a Platform for Ministry. Encourage our youth to use social media as a means to share their faith, spread positivity, and engage in meaningful conversations. Inspire them to be creative in producing content that reflects their Christian values.
Cultivating healthy media habits by helping our youth establish healthy boundaries and time management strategies for media consumption. Encourage them to pursue activities that nourish their spiritual growth and personal development.
Let us remember that social media, media, and entertainment are powerful tools that can either build or erode our faith. It is our responsibility as a community to guide and support our youth in navigating these digital currents. By rooting ourselves in God’s Word, fostering discernment, and embracing positive influence, we can empower our youth to make wise choices and glorify God in all aspects of their lives.
The challenges our youth face in the realm of social media and entertainment are significant. As a community, we must offer support, guidance, and a safe space for open dialogue. Let us encourage our youth to find their worth and identity in Christ, reminding them of their unique value as children of God. By fostering healthy media habits, promoting digital responsibility, and cultivating strong offline relationships, we can empower our youth to navigate these challenges with wisdom, resilience, and a steadfast faith. Together, let us walk alongside them on this journey, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive in the digital age.
May we continue to pray for their spiritual strength and growth, and may God grant them wisdom and discernment as they navigate the digital world. Amen.
Have you heard of the place called heaven? We all probably heard of it. We long for it. Dream of it. Strive hard to win for it.
But how would you describe heaven? How does the Bible actually describe it? What kind of hope can we have about heaven? What does the word heaven makes you think of? A place up in the sky, above the clouds and just a little more up in space, after the planets and galaxies? Or maybe a different dimension of reality? Will it really be a place of happiness and full of wonderful things to discover and explore? Or a calm, serene, quiet place of singing and music? Who would be there?
In the very name of our denomination, we Seventh-day Adventists declare their utmost hope in the Second Coming of Christ. How wonderful that will be—our time on this sin-corrupted earth will be done. And we can look forward to being with Jesus forever in Heaven and in the New Earth.
But what exactly does “Heaven” mean? And if there’s a “Heaven,” why do we need a “New Earth?”
It’s understandable to have questions about heaven. It’s a concept we have to stretch our minds just to think about! And even while the Bible offers several vibrant details, there is still a lot of mystery left to us. So much that we can only begin to comprehend.
Starting from the basics, heaven is a literal place where God resides. It is not just a comforting idea or “state of mind.” The Bible says God rules the universe from heaven (Psalm 33:13-14). And the light of His glory fills the entire place. Jesus came from Heaven before He took human form on earth, and He returned to Heaven after His earthly ministry was completed (Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:1-11).
Read 1 Corinthians 2:9: This verse states, “But as it is written: ‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.‘” We interpret this as a glimpse into the glory and wonders of heaven that surpass human imagination.
Paul tells us that these things have been revealed to us by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:10). In fact, the Bible does speak about what is waiting for God’s people at the end of time. And it is not quite what many people expect.
In John 14:2-3: In this passage, Jesus says, “In my Father’s house are many mansions… I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. We believe this promise of Jesus as He prepares a place in heaven for His followers.
In Revelation 21:1-4: This chapter describes the vision of the Apostle John, where he sees a new heaven and a new earth, and God dwelling with His people. It speaks of a place where there will be no more pain, sorrow, or death.
In her book “The Great Controversy”: Sis. Ellen G. White discusses the cosmic conflict between good and evil and presents a vision of the future. It describes the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom and the restoration of a new earth, where the redeemed will live in the presence of God.
Writings and sermons emphasizes the importance of developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This highlights the hope of eternal life in heaven as a motivator for seeking God’s grace and salvation.
The Bible does tell us that we will be caught up to meet Jesus in the air when He returns (1 Thessalonians 4:17), and that we will “always be with the Lord.”
But the book of Revelation gives us an even greater, more surprising detail.
Revelation 21:1-3 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reads as follows:
“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.”
This passage is from the book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament, which contains a series of visions and prophecies attributed to the apostle John. In this particular passage, John describes a vision of a new heaven and a new earth, signifying a renewed and perfect creation. The old order of things, including the previous heaven and earth, has passed away.
John also sees the holy city, the new Jerusalem, descending from heaven, symbolizing the dwelling place of God among humanity. The imagery used likens the city to a bride beautifully adorned for her husband, suggesting the intimate and cherished relationship between God and His people.
A great voice from heaven announces that the tabernacle, or dwelling place, of God is now among humans. God will dwell with them, and they will be His people. The passage emphasizes the closeness and direct relationship between God and His chosen ones, with God Himself being their God.
The amazing surprise is that earth will be our eternal home. God will make renewed versions of heaven and earth that do not bear the scars of sin, violence, suffering, and death.
Activity/Group Discussion Questions:
As a group, draw heaven as you have depicted, based on the Bible and other biblical writings. Reference: Revelation 19-22.
What is your initial understanding or perception of heaven based on these chapters in Revelation?
In Revelation 19, we read about the marriage supper of the Lamb. What do you think this event represents, and why is it significant in the context of heaven?
Revelation 20 speaks about the millennium, a period of 1,000 years. What are your thoughts on this concept? How do you interpret its significance in relation to heaven?
Revelation 21 describes the new heaven and new earth. What images or descriptions stood out to you, and how do they shape your understanding of the eternal state?
In Revelation 21:3, it is mentioned that God will dwell with humans and be their God. What does this mean to you, and how does it impact your view of heaven?
The new Jerusalem is described as a city in Revelation 21. What do you think the symbolism of a city represents in the context of heaven? How does it contrast with the common image of heaven as a cloudy, ethereal place?
Revelation 21:4 says that God will wipe away every tear and there will be no more death, sorrow, or pain. How does this promise influence your view of heaven and its significance for believers?
Revelation 22:1-5 mentions the river of life and the tree of life. What do you think these symbols represent, and how do they contribute to your understanding of heaven?
In Revelation 22:12, Jesus says, “Behold, I am coming quickly.” How does the anticipation of Christ’s return affect your view of heaven and your daily life as a young Christian?
How can the concept of heaven and the promises found in these chapters in Revelation inspire and motivate us in our faith and service to God here on earth?
Highlights and Conclusion:
“There, when the veil that darkens our vision shall be removed, and our eyes shall behold that world of beauty of which we now catch glimpses through the microscope; when we look on the glories of the heavens, now scanned afar through the telescope; when, the blight of sin removed, the whole earth shall appear in ‘the beauty of the Lord our God,’ what a field will be open to our study!” – Ellen G. White, Education, p. 301
“In the earth made new, the redeemed will engage in the occupations and pleasures that brought happiness to Adam and Eve in the beginning. The Eden life will be lived, the life in garden and field.” – Ellen G. White, Counsels to Teachers, Parents, and Students, p. 306
“In heaven there will be no tiresome nights, no sense of weariness; no darkness, no langour, no disease. In heaven there is perfect rest, and everlasting day.” – Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, p. 674
It is a place where God’s will reigns perfectly (Matthew 6:10). It is the true Paradise, the most wonderful and perfect place in the universe. This is amazing news! There really is a place so eternally magnificent beyond this earthly, finite existence. God really will restore His believers into eternal beings to live with Him forever.
We have often heard and read and emphasized the concept of heaven as a glorious reward to strive for. We are encouraged to fix our eyes on the eternal prize of heaven. Described as a place of indescribable beauty, joy, and perfect communion with God. It is a reward for those who faithfully follow Christ, a place where there will be no more tears, pain, or sorrow. We are urged to seek heavenly treasures and eternal life through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
The hope of heaven is the confident expectation and anticipation of experiencing the eternal presence of God and dwelling in His kingdom. It is the belief that, through faith in Jesus Christ and living a Christlike life, believers will inherit the promises of eternal life, joy, and fellowship with God.
The hope of heaven provides comfort, encouragement, and assurance to us in various ways:
Eternal Life: The hope of heaven assures believers that their earthly lives are not the end but rather a continuation into an eternal and abundant life with God. It offers the promise of being freed from the limitations, struggles, and pains of this present world.
Presence of God: Heaven represents the intimate and unhindered presence of God. Believers hope to dwell in His loving and perfect presence, experiencing the fullness of His glory, peace, and love.
Reunion and Restoration: The hope of heaven includes the anticipation of being reunited with loved ones who have also placed their faith in Christ. It provides assurance that the brokenness and separation caused by death will be healed, and relationships will be restored in the eternal kingdom.
Perfection and Wholeness: Heaven is often described as a place where there will be no more suffering, sin, or pain. The hope of heaven offers the prospect of complete healing, restoration, and transformation into the image of Christ.
Worship and Joy: Believers hope for an eternity of worship and praise, joining with the heavenly hosts in glorifying God. It is a place where joy, peace, and fulfillment abound, surpassing anything experienced on Earth.
The hope of heaven provides solace in times of difficulty, motivation for righteous living, and a perspective that transcends the challenges of this present world. It inspires believers to focus on the eternal and to live in anticipation of the glorious inheritance that awaits them in the presence of God.
The Bible does not provide us with an exact location for heaven. We are told, however, that heaven is separate from the earth. As mentioned, after His death and resurrection, Jesus left earth and had to ascend to heaven (Luke 24:51.) Acts 1:2 describes Jesus being “taken up to heaven,” so we can be sure it is a physical place and that is in a different location, above us, outward from Earth.
The Bible also says, “From heaven the Lord looks down and sees all mankind, from his dwelling place He watches all who live on earth…” (Psalm 33:13-14). And in Revelation, the New Jerusalem is described to be “descending” out of Heaven from God (21:10).
The Bible says heaven is a stunningly beautiful place with sparkling stones, streets of gold, and gates “made of a single pearl” (Revelation 21:21). Heaven completely stretches our understanding of reality. The apostle Paul says that Jesus currently “dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen nor can see…” (1 Timothy 6:14-16, ESV). In our current bodies and states as humans, we can’t even take in the kind of splendor heaven represents.
And Revelation 21:21 describes the incredible beauty of the New Jerusalem with “twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.”
There’s breathtaking power as well. Revelation 4:5 says God’s throne, saying that from it came “flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder” and in front “was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal.”
While we can’t know the actual time, day and year, we know at what point in the world’s “future history” that Heaven will become a reality for the followers of Jesus Christ. Jesus carries His believers to Heaven at His Second Coming. And only God the Father knows when this will take place.
Though we can’t “earn” our way to heaven because we are flawed, sinful beings, God sent Jesus to die for us, paying the “wages of sin” (Romans 6:23) for us, so we could go to heaven (John 3:16).
Because of what Jesus did for us, we are redeemed from our past and do not need to suffer the consequences of our sins.
Jesus willingly sacrificed Himself because He loves us. As we accept His sacrifice and decide to follow Him, He gives us eternal life. This means living with Him in heaven and the New Earth.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). None of us make our own way to heaven. It is impossible. Heaven is a perfect place, therefore requiring perfection from those who enter it. Nobody in humanity qualifies for heaven on their own merits. Jesus is our only hope.
As we accept his sacrifice and choose to live a life in harmony and friendship with Him, He invites us into a life of certainty in salvation, heaven, and eternal life with Him.
Those who truly want to be there will be there. Those who don’t want to be with God for eternity will not. Those who choose to be in a loving relationship with God will enjoy this friendship with Him forever because He freely offers it.
Ephesians 2:8 says: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God…”
This gift is available to all. 2 Peter 3:9 tells us how God wants every single human He created to choose eternal life with Him. That definitely includes you and your loved ones.
Heaven is a reality. And because God values freedom of choice, He leaves it ultimately up to us if we want to be part of that reality or not.
Jesus gives us hope for the future. This hope in heaven that comes through a relationship with Him not only provides eternal life but makes a huge difference for life right now.
Jesus is calling all of us into a life of joy and peace as His friends. He is offering eternal life as well a life of meaning and peace in the here and now. (John 3:16)
Psalm 16:11 says, “You reveal the path of life to me; in Your presence is abundant joy; in Your right hand are eternal pleasures.”
Suffering is a hard reality of life here on earth. None of us are exempt. We all go through extremely tough times in one way or another.
Here’s the good news: The hope Jesus gives us in heaven helps frame suffering in a different way. We can know with 100% certainty that by choosing Jesus, we are going to a place where God will wipe every tear from our eyes. God is calling us to Heaven where there will be no sin and no suffering. (Revelation 21:4).
So even though we have a lot to deal with in this life, God gives us hope for the future that helps us deal with the present in a positive, faith-filled way. The perfection of heaven speaks to the perfect nature of God and the beauty of life with Him that is available to us all.
We can have hope that although life here on earth can be very difficult, a better future waits for us in heaven as we accept the sacrifice of Jesus (John 3:16).
After the thousand-year Millennium in which those that have accepted Christ spend with God in Heaven, God will destroy Satan and his followers for good, and we will come down from heaven back to a cleansed, remade earth—the New Earth—where we will live in the New Jerusalem. It will be Garden of Eden 2.0—earth as it was originally intended.
The apostle John described this new earth in Revelation 21 as “a bride adorned for her husband.” It will be a place where God will live with us (Revelation 21:22). The New Jerusalem will be clear as crystal and will be “adorned with every kind of jewel” (Revelation 21:15-20, CSB).
Living with God in the New Jerusalem will literally be Heaven on Earth.
HeavenwardYouth 