Focusing on Our Heavenly City

Abraham realized God had a greater plan for his life. Therefore, he shifted his focus from the world around him to the world that was yet to come. The same should be true of us.

The trials we face in this earthly life cannot compare to the glory that one day will be ours. But we can taste heaven on earth now. Once we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are adopted into the family of God. Our names are not only written in the Lamb’s Book of Life; they also are recorded in the eternal census records of God’s Kingdom.

With our citizenship no longer tied to this world, we can live with a sense of eternal hope for the future. Take time to read the entire chapter of Hebrews 11, and you will discover that Abraham is not the only one whose life was changed by devotion to God.

One aspect of Abraham’s faith that set him and other Old Testament believers apart from New Testament believers is found in Hebrews 11.

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. . . . Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. (Hebrews 11:13, 16)

How did Abraham become a man of such faith that he was called the friend of God? His life was not failure-free. He had his share of setbacks, detours, and discouragements. But he didn’t set up camp and stay there. He exercised faith; he grew spiritually and pressed on to follow God, keeping his eyes set on His promises, His faithfulness, His enduring city. God has prepared the same city for you. Because Jesus Christ has saved you from your sins, you can enjoy a touch of heaven on earth as you worship and live your life for Him each day.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your gift of salvation. Teach me all I need to know about You and allow me to serve You today. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.