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." (1 Corinthians 2:9, NKJV)
What tremendous things God has in store for those who love Him. The last two chapters of Revelation (Revelation 21 and 22) tell us much about this. His promise to us is "a new heaven and a new earth." When we survey what is in it, we should be greatly encouraged.
First and foremost, God will dwell with us. We shall be so close to Him that we "shall see His face." The New Jerusalem shall be part of it, reflecting His marvelous glory. But much more, "The throne of God and the Lamb shall be in it" and from the throne shall flow a life-giving river. We discover that the tree of life will be on either side of it, continually yielding its fruit, bringing healing to the nations. All this portends a perfect world, where each believer will forever bask in God's light and brilliance.
Let us dwell on this. Let us internalize the incredible things God has prepared for us. But not only that. We should also meditate on what will NOT be in the new earth. There will be no sin. There will be no selfishness, pride, hatred, bigotry, or any other like cars in its train. None of this will exist. These things will be forever gone: Immorality, unfaithfulness, falsehood, killing, abuse, slander, hostility, war, and such. The harmful effects of sin will be no more. There will be no more tears, sorrow, pain, sickness, or death. Neither will Satan be anymore, the one who unleashed these evils into this world.
There will be nothing that defiles, nothing impure or corrupt. Sin brought the curse into this world when Adam and Eve rebelled against God in the garden. It brought thistles and thorns, agony, and destruction in its path. Christ took the curse upon himself, so we would not have to bear it. In the new earth, no remnant of it will exist. You will know no guilt, and no burden will you ever have to carry.
There also will be no temple in it. Why? Because "The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple." God will dwell fully with us and we with Him. No barriers, no obstacles, no hindrances, or separation will exist. God's unselfish love will permeate every molecule of our being. There will be no lack. God will see to it.
Therefore, long for the future things God has prepared for you. But in doing so, fail not to grasp what He has prepared for you today. God's presence and love are available to you now. The Holy Spirit can infill you now. You can receive the victorious life of Christ now. Be joyful for what will come in the morrow. However, do not neglect the blessings God has prepared for you today.
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