You are racing toward a glorious victory in heaven. As you continue to trust in Jesus as your Savior, nothing can change this inevitability. God’s promise cannot be changed!

Romans 13:10–14 says: "Love is the fulfillment of the law. And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." (NIV) Paul was inspired to remind you that since you are God’s child because of Jesus, live like God’s child. Since you are closer today to being heaven than you were yesterday, act like it. Don’t let the ways of the world control you. Instead, “put on the armor of light” and live a life that reflects who you are.

You won’t do that perfectly. But your Savior’s forgiveness covers you as you trust in him. You remain God’s child because of Jesus. So struggle to grow in faith and godly living. Struggle against sin as you grow in God’s Word and give careful thought to how God’s will applies to your life.

The verses above warn us against living a thoughtless life in which we mindlessly indulge ourselves. At the same time, we hear the encouragement of our final victory and the promise that the Lord Jesus is with us during our struggle in this sinful world.

So race toward your promised victory in heaven with the strength and comfort of knowing that the Lord Jesus is with you and is using your service for the good of his kingdom.

 

Pastor Tim Wempner

Pastor Joshua Zarling