Friday June 11, 2021

Today’s Reading: Psalm 48

 Just as we heard, so we have seen in the city of the Lord of Hosts, in the city of our God; God will establish it forever. Selah

Psalm 48:8

Reflection: Imagine what it would be like to rejoice forever. Imagine constant celebration for eternity. This is what our time with the LORD in His Kingdom will be like. Have you ever reflected deeply about the concept of forever, this extensive span of time that never ends? Sometimes the fleeting moments in which we spend waiting impatiently can seem like they last for eternity. But the concept of forever is real. And that is a long time. There is no better place to spend forever than with the LORD, rejoicing Him and enjoying His faithful love and fellowship.

God dwells in His Kingdom, which He not only keeps from being conquered by other rulers, but also maintains as its Good Ruler and King. Outside forces cannot destroy this Kingdom, and neither will it crumble in decay from within. Because the LORD is a perfect Ruler, His Sovereignty ensures that the Kingdom will reign forever. Some may advance toward Heaven to conquer it, but they soon flee in terror when they experience the power of the One Who protects it. Meanwhile, within the City’s walls, God’s love and justice are carried out fully, and all of Heaven’s citizens have reason to rejoice all the day. This is what we have to hope for as believers: one day dwelling in Heaven with God. This assurance of our future with Him is what causes us to live now. Without the reminder of our eternal home in Heaven, suffering becomes increasingly unbearable and comfort becomes our greatest concern. But the LORD Who promises an eternity with Him calls us to live beyond the here and now. He calls us to keep the reality of eternity in mind.

Therefore, keep your eyes on forever, that everyday on earth would reflect your citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven. Live not under the trials of today or for the comforts of the present time, but in the Promise of eternity with the LORD.

Prayer: Eternal God, Your reign forever and ever. You are the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. You are the Sustainer of all things great and small, and You by Your amazing grace have preserved me to live with You in Your Kingdom forever. Thank You LORD, for this promise in which I can hope. Thank You for the assurance that You will lead me in Your everlasting Way. Thank You for Your mercy upon me, for I do not deserve to live with You, but You have granted this blessing through Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Please keep the reminder of eternity with You in my heart and mind, that it would guide all I think, say and do, and that I would truly show in my life that I am a citizen of Your Kingdom and a follower of You. In Jesus’ Name I pray, AMEN.

Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Acts 26:1-18; Ruth 3-4; Psalm 48