“For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20
Our Citizenship in Heaven
As believers, we are reminded that we are citizens of a heavenly home and not just here on Earth. This perspective encourages us to live for something greater, which is the eternal life promised to us through our faith in Jesus Christ. We share this beautiful truth with one another, inspiring and supporting one another on our walk of faith. Our true identity and belonging are found in heaven, which reminds us to steer our lives according to its values and purpose. Understanding that this world is temporary helps us prioritize our spiritual journey, looking forward to what lies ahead.
Philippians 3:20
“For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20
1 Peter 2:11
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.” – 1 Peter 2:11
Hebrews 13:14
“For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.” – Hebrews 13:14
John 14:2
“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” – John 14:2
Revelation 21:2
“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.” – Revelation 21:2
Living as Strangers
Throughout the Bible, we are reminded that we are just passing through this world. As strangers and pilgrims, we have a unique role to play in this temporary place. This understanding calls for us to live our lives intentionally, focusing on spiritual values instead of earthly comforts. We hold onto our faith and act in ways that reflect our heavenly identity. By doing so, we encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ to remember their own identities as they walk this path together. We can build a community that thrives on the hope of our eternal home.
1 Peter 2:11
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.” – 1 Peter 2:11
Hebrews 11:13
“All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth.” – Hebrews 11:13
Genesis 23:4
“I am a foreigner and stranger among you. Sell me some land for a burial site here so I can bury my dead.” – Genesis 23:4
Exodus 12:49
“The same law applies both to the native-born and to the foreigners residing among you.” – Exodus 12:49
Philippians 3:19
“Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.” – Philippians 3:19
The Hope of Eternity
In recognizing that we are not truly home in this world, we are called to turn our focus toward the hope of eternity. Our future with Christ is a promise that outweighs all our worldly experiences. This hope fills our hearts with joy and guides us in our daily lives. As we share this hope, we can cultivate a spirit of encouragement among ourselves. Together, we remind one another of the eternal glory awaiting us and find comfort in our shared journey. The hope of eternity not only strengthens our resolve but also nurtures our relationships with each other.
Romans 8:18
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” – Romans 8:18
2 Corinthians 4:18
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:18
Matthew 5:12
“Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” – Matthew 5:12
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4
Strengthening One Another
Life can sometimes feel heavy as we navigate through this world, but that is why we have one another within the body of Christ. We come together to strengthen one another and provide support as we remember that this world is only temporary. Our fellowship encourages us to endure and persevere, as we reflect on the hope of our future in eternity. Let us gather to share the light of our faith and uplift each other, reminding one another of God’s promises. By uniting in love, we create a powerful bond that propels us toward our shared goal: our eternal home.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Romans 15:2
“Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.” – Romans 15:2
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
Trusting God’s Plan
Throughout our journey in this world, trusting in God’s plan becomes crucial. He assures us that He has a purpose for each of us, guiding us through the ups and downs we may face. By trusting in His guidance, we can navigate this life with confidence and peace. We recognize that while we may be in this world, we are not of it, and God’s plan for our eternal home assures us that He is always working for our good. Let us remind each other of God’s promises as we grow in trust, firmly placing our faith in His divine plan.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye on you.” – Psalm 32:8
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” – Isaiah 55:8-9
His Grace is Sufficient
Living in a world that is not our home may feel challenging at times, but we are assured that God’s grace is more than enough for us. His grace sustains us, allows us to overcome obstacles, and grants us the strength to keep moving forward. Embracing His grace reminds us that we can lean on Him, especially in our struggles. We gather to share our experiences and confess our fears, allowing God’s grace to flow through us and heal our hearts. Together, we can encourage one another to rely on God’s grace, reminding ourselves that we are never alone on this journey.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Hebrews 4:16
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16
Romans 5:20
“The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more.” – Romans 5:20
1 Peter 5:10
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” – 1 Peter 5:10
1 Corinthians 15:10
“But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” – 1 Corinthians 15:10
Final Thoughts
As we journey through this world together, we must remember that our true home is in heaven. Our identity as citizens of that heavenly kingdom is a guiding light in our lives. While we experience challenges here, the hope of eternity encourages us to support one another. The word of God reminds us that we are not alone; we can lean on each other and share our burdens. Let us trust in God’s plan, knowing His grace is sufficient for every trial we face. Together, we can create a community that reflects the love and kindness of Christ, reminding each other that we are destined for a beautiful home beyond this world.
If you’re seeking more encouragement regarding how we can face the issues of this world, you may find it insightful to explore topics such as the fallen world or the corrupt world. These messages can fortify our spirits and inspire us to hold fast to our faith.