If our view of Heaven contains no real foundation, the thought of eternity will never make our troubles seem "light and momentary" 2 Corinthians 4:17. And while it's true that "faith is the substance of things hoped for" Hebrews 11:1, we still need some understanding or our faith will never generate the hope which can truly impact our life.
When Jacob was looking for a wife, he found Rachel. Jacob quickly fell in love and promised to work seven years in exchange for receiving Rachel as his wife.
"So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her."Genesis 29:20
Jacob worked hard for many years, but the hope of being with the one he loved eased any burden he might have felt. Jacob had a good understanding of the one he hoped for, and this brought him great comfort. He saw Rachel's beauty every day and was certainly permitted to talk with her often. He knew Rachel and probably spent many hours dreaming of her and holding her in his arms. There was undoubtedly a longing inside Jacob which he knew only Rachel could fill.
God gave His Son so we could be brought back to a full and right relationship with Him for all eternity. But God did not leave us with an empty view or ask us to cling to a blind hope. He allows us into His presence and gives us the ability to know Him NOW! We will never grasp all that Heaven has to offer until we see Him face to face. But God allows us to taste eternity if we will remove the competing distractions, draw near to His side, and ask for our hunger to be satisfied.
Let's dedicate our lives to knowing the One with whom we will spend eternity - the One on whom we base our hope. Let's commune with our Father in prayer and learn of His nature through His Word. Let's strive for an all-consuming love - a love complete with the empty ache which only His presence can fill. Let's rejoice, receive comfort and gain strength, as we draw near and are allowed a taste of eternity.
- steve troxel
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