After reading today’s passages, use the guiding content below to help you reflect, respond, and engage with one another.
Scripture ends with the book of Revelation’s descriptions of God reigning over the new heaven and new earth.
In prayer and in the comments, reflect on how these passages compare to your current understanding of eternity. How has the reading clarified or changed your perspective?
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297 thoughts on "Something New Is Coming"
God works with us and through us. His ultimate goal is to have us sit at His right hand with no pain, no suffering and in His light. Excited for the next journey when He comes again.
“Let the one who is thirsty come, let the one who desires take the water of life without price.” What a beautiful inheritance we have waiting for us!
Reading this scripture is truly a reminder that ultimately God reigns over all of us and someday he will come to take us as His followers that is so much better than we can comprehend. It is a good reminder that the things of this world are fleeting but His love and goodness last forever. Taking this lesson to remind myself of what truly matters-my relationship with Him and with others.
The thought of God being our light with no sun or moon needed was something I had never fully grasped. How amazing that one day we will physically be in His light ♥️
So much goodness and hope that helps us to persevere. I don’t know if I remember knowing about there being no sun, moon, or night because God will be the light we need. Just another example of how we won’t need any of the things of this world, God will truly be our everything.
This will we a glorious day!
We can wash our robes and be welcomed. A powerful message ❤️
Reading the scripture helps me understand that God is the beginning and the end, He is first and last and Alpha and Omega and that He is to be praised and glorified. There will be no sun or moon because God will be the light in Heaven which I think is so cool and amazing about God.
There will be no need for the sun or moon because our steps will be illuminated by the Glory of God. How magnificent. My prayer is for the lost around me- that the Lord will reveal himself to them so that they too can share in this beautiful inheritance. Lord help me live expectant for this glorious inheritance and help me be more willing to share the good news of the gospel with those in my life. Amen.
Reading these scriptures clarify that God is the almighty and will be coming to reclaim His people soon & those that believe and follow the words of God will have everlasting life
It makes me excited to get that visual of what god is trying to get in my head. He has set a place for us with no pain and no crying and no harm and gave it to his followers and his believers. I pray that the unbelievers find there path through god and will continue to try and grow there faithfulness and become righteous with the lord our god.
Reminds me to never fear the “end” for it means eternal life with the father and it will be beautiful! For there is a world far greater than this to look forward to.
Makes me so excited for what’s to come. No curse of sin, no illness, no sorrow, no darkness. Living illuminated by the presence of God. How beautiful and wonderful that will be! Especially on this side of that’s to come, it fills me with hope and peace.
I think it is beautiful what God has planned for us no sickness no pain just love from our father and to be able to worship and give him thanks !!!
Amazing… my daughter is baptized, I pray my son will also give his whole heart to God. If you see this, please pray for his salvation.
The verses remind me to be humble; God is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End (yet the End is eternal). So much beauty in this!
I think of how limited our worldly view is of beauty and am always expectant of and relish in the Godly restoration and renewal that comes with us accepting Him in making us anew in His image. The love!!
I love how the passages stated more than once that God isn’t finished yet, but the end is near and we should be preparing ourselves for what He has saved for us! I can only imagine what experiencing the bright light and glory of God will be like, but I cannot wait!
I can hardly imagine living in such perfection endlessly in Jerusalem as the book of Revelation describes, when all is said and done with humanity as we know it. It feels ways like way too much to take in!
Sometimes I think the idea of eternal life can be too focused on the idea of heaven – these verses draw our attention back to God
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Eternal life with God, is something that He wants with me. The scriptures reminds me of how much power He holds. He gives reassurance that this new eternal life with Him will be free from pain and suffering.
I found the verse where he talks about there being no sun, just the light of god. No sun. We revolve around the sun on this earth. How magnificent it must be to have Jesus at the center of everything in the next life. Reminds me of his Power and Goodnesses
It’s comforting to know this world is not “it”. There’s a life waiting for us that’ll be more real and beautiful than we can begin to imagine. Being in God’s presence for eternity will be beyond our dreams.
As I am beginning to understand and deepen my relationship with God, this passage kind of scares me. But at the same time it helps me with understanding the power he holds but simultaneously the mercy he shows for use as his children.
Revelation is frightening when you read it but also encouraging and confusing. The scripture reminds me to center God in all things and to not be distracted from the world. To be a beacon of light and hope until God returns.
The lord wants us now to come before him, all of us, as sinful as we are, just so we can experience eternity. We’re so undeserving, yet he longs for us always. How sweet thou art.
Not gonna lie…sometimes when I reread revelation I realise how much I still don’t understand and have to learn
As I work on getting closer to God, l can feel the enemy trying to deceive me. Telling me I’m not worthy and giving me feelings that are not of God but of the enemy. I find comfort in it because I know he feels threatened and that I’m doing something right. Thank you, Lord, for your mercy and grace.
God will carry us through to his paradise
My child that cannot walk WILL walk in the new earth. What an incredible day that will be!
Rev. 21:23, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, because the glory of God illuminates it, and its lamp is the Lamb”. How amazing!!
Questions: Will there be time/seasons in the new Heaven and earth? Rev. 22:2, “…producing its fruit every month”.
Continuing in Rev 22:2, “The leaves of the tree are for healing the nations” Can someone explain? Won’t the nations already be healed because it is the new Heaven/earth?
I am humbly thankful to be in the presence of my Lord, and to be free of sin, no pain, no suffering and no tears!To be able to see the trees bear fruit monthly and know how marvelous that is! I also am grateful to know that the light of God will shine upon me to keep the thought of no Sun or Moon! What a joyous revelation!
Beautifully written and eye opening that it says no night on the new earth with no sun or moon needed. Mind blowing and breathtaking.
I didn’t know there would be no night in the new earth, with no need for sun or moon because the light needed will be the Lord. That blows my mind! Also, the fruit trees lining the river of life with 12 different fruits – one for each month. That sounds beautiful. Thank you God!
I am thankful for the promises of God! I am forever thankful that I will spend eternity with him where there will be no more sorrow, no more pain, no more sickness, no more dying but everyday will be a glorious day! Thank you, God, for your promises.
It’s hard to imagine a place such as heaven as all I’ve know in this world is fear and pain. While I deeply long to spend eternity in heaven with Jesus a part of me fears deaths and I know my longing come from my spirit and my fear from the grips of this world that I am so desperately trying to escape from.
I’m so thankful for being born again. And knowing I am going to be with Jesus for eternity
“Let the one who is thirsty come ; let the one who desires to take the water of life without price.” How I pray I will never lose that thirst – that my desire for the water will not be pushed aside for the business of life. And that nothing else will quench it
This passage gives me reassurance of life after death. Not only will there be no pain or suffering, there will be overwhelming beauty every where we look.
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I used to be scared about what’s to come. But as I continue to grow my relationship with Jesus, the fear I once had is going away and replaced with awe and excitement to spend the rest of my life with our God. Our maker, our father in heaven.
What beautiful and true promise God has made to us. Eternity for ever and ever! As so long as we devote ourselves to him and follow his ways.
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I am currently going through a breakup and it’s a huge life change. Reading this passage today gave me hope for new beginnings that God will wipe away my tears and make all things new.
Dear God, I pray for myself and anyone who is hurting today. I pray that you will wipe away our tears and negative thoughts about what has or will happen and help us to soak up your words. We are children of God, loved by you for all eternity. Help to remind us of this as we go about our days, weeks, months, that it takes to heal. Be ever close to us Lord. I pray you forgive me for being far from you and for my sins. My heart is placed with you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Thankful for the promise of dwelling with the Lord for all eternity. I continue to pray for future generations to experience the love of God through salvation in Him. I pray that I will continue to have many opportunities to share my faith with my grandchildren now and those yet to be born.
Jesus is the light – all kindness and love lives in eternity
I look forward to seeing God on his throne and shining with all his brilliance. Shining with such a radiant light so that there will never be darkness again! It makes me smile to just think about it.
I can hardly fathom such a place but I sure look forward to it!!
The Creator has created a perfect paradise where we will find respite when he comes to call us all home. He will deliver us from the burdens of the world. For those who have followed his ways and teachings, he will grant us an eternity of peace, joy and love without suffering. What a generous God he is
I patiently await the day I will feel the embrace of my Creator, and live in His ever-present joy!
That eternity is so so real and we so often lose sight of it!
God’s Word is true. I will one day experience everything I just read. What a glorious day that will be! My prayer now is for those who don’t know Him. His words to us are His words to them … the Spirit says come! Oh, that they would respond before it’s too late!
I used to be so scared of what was to come, like high anxiety. As I’ve grown up a bit and stepped into new things and left the old me in the past I’m able to be excited about the future and not dreading it or being anxious.
Looking back when I used to read this scripture it brought feelings of dread and anxiety/ but now with this new life perspective when I read I feel hope and excitement.
It’s a true testament to how God has changed my heart so now I’m able to read his word with a different interpretation of how I used to.
Gods Kingdom is near! I can only imagine the beauty it will be. I’m sure his light will be magical. I can’t wait to bow down upon his feet and worship him. What a loving God we have, but we also have a God that will judge. I pray for those who are not right with him and pray they open their hearts to his word and get the free gift of GRACE.
Jesus is the breath of life,he’s life,in him is life.
I have been heart broken for the past two day because currently we live long distance from our child and she has recently made a decision that my keep ear from moving close to us, as initially planned. The reality of living apart from her and my future grandchildren saddens me so much. However this study has helped me to put into perspective that the sorrow of separation in our earthly life is nothing compared to the happiness we will have in our eternal life together. Helps me put into perspective that my job here is to help continue to guide my family in being in the word so that we may reap the fruit of eternal unity and happiness.
These scriptures make want to be sure that I am ready to go when he comes
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I’m so thankful for Jesus’ redemption and His covering of righteousness. There’s no way I’d be entering through the gates without His gifts.
“The dwelling place of God is with man”-every time I read this scripture I feel moved to tears and I want to sigh with relief. Most especially now as we have been looking at Genesis, when God did dwell with Adam and Eve, and have seen them sent out from the garden, out of his presence. What joy and unity we will experience when God again declares that his dwelling place is with his people. All the sin, the suffering, and sadness we experience in the world will be gone when the kingdom of this world becomes the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ.
I love how the Church is described as being Jesus’ bride, adorned for her groom. it is his blood that cleanses us and prepares us for eternity.
‘The kingdom of this world, is becoming the kingdom of our Lord’
Come, Lord Jesus and make all things new.
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What’s coming is more magnificent than the sea, the stars, the moon, or the sun!
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I cannot wait to meet Jesus! The words trustworthy and true stood out as that is who God is, and that is what eternity with him is all about. It is also encouraging now when things are hard that one day we will live in heaven with our perfect Savior.
Reading these passages from Revelation, laid out like that, really highlighted for me, how God’s light is what we need, how the new Holy City is pure and clear and how we need to be mindful that we follow God’s ways to the end. Heavenly Father, I pray you help me to stay in the moment with you, to know You more, to walk in Your ways and to share Your love with the people around me. In Jesus name, amen.
I just cannot wait to meet our God, i know He is special. He is our Father and i know He has a plan to come to our world.
Some days, this day cannot come soon enough!
It’s amazing to think about how one day God will be with us. No matter what I am going through now I can cling to that promise
The words trustworthy and true stand out to me. The promise of a perfect eternity is trustworthy. The promise of perfect eternity is true. This truth brings John to his knees in worship. When we understand the truth of eternity, we should be moved to worship.
Thank you for sharing your insight, I didn’t even think about that
I think I will miss the beauty of the sunrise and sunsets, the twinkling stars at night, the quiet and stillness when the world is at rest as my human mind can’t grasp this new eternity.
I hear you with this post as I listen to the rain on the window. My human mind can’t wrap itself around how truly magnificent eternity will be.
I feel the same
Wow
This was one of the best she reads truth plans I have been doing so far. This one really clarified who will truly and forever reside in gods kingdom. ❤️ have a good day whoever you are. :)
Amen
Sounds so beautiful and secure in His presence and love. Come, Lord Jesus.
I yearn for the day that we will see our God face to face
It stuck out to me that John said when he saw the new heaven and earth in the vision that he fell to his knees in worship. Imagine how amazing it is for that to be your first response!
This reading of the Scriptures has helped me reflect on my own life and how I want to live for Jesus. My desire is to be a partaker in the New Kingdom that Jesus is bringing. And most importantly, I want to be a light in this world for Christ, sharing His Gospel and the message that is so important to us now more than ever before; Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. May I be an instrument of your glory, oh God, to lead others to Christ and to be found holy and acceptable in your sight. Glory be unto God Almighty. Amen.
The Lord is our light and we will not need the sun or the moon…Night no more so no stars. He is our bright morning star!
Thinking of those who worship the moon and sun and guide their lives by the stars; praying that their eyes be opened to the true God who is our light!
“Both the Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come!’ Let anyone who hears say, ‘Come!’”
Whew. Let my heart be in a constant state of asking Jesus and Heaven to come and dwell wherever I am.
I find great comfort in a new world where God dwells among his people and that all the pain that sin has caused is washed away. A new world where we as believers are able to fully worship and be in the presence of our Lord and Savior.
My prayer is that as our current world is bogged down by hate, death and falsehood that my family continues to lead a life devoted to the Lord and we are able to show God’s love to others so they seek Him.
I just pray that my children and I get the opportunity to witness the new earth.
The scripture has me shaken. My world has been turned upside down and knowing that something new is coming moves me so deeply.
My God is my supply, thank you father God!
It always surprises me, despite having read this many times before, that it will be an entirely new earth
How beautiful eternity will be. No more pain, death, worry, suffering. I was visualizing these verses and thinking how majestic it will look in eternity (although my mind is not even capable of really knowing the beauty of it). Lord, I pray You help
And guide me to be the light here on earth.
I’ve felt a lot of anxiety lately and the idea that I will not have to deal with it in heaven for eternity is very reassuring to me. It makes it easier to deal with the day to day life.
I love that God not only makes a way to restore us to pre-sin status, but He also will restore the physical world to pre-sin status. He creates a new earth. That’s the kind of person He is. He never forgets or turns His back on His creation. He is a God who completes. He is a God of the smallest detail! He makes ALL things new.
I love the reminder that eternity is not us sitting in fluffy clouds in heaven. I can’t wrap my mind around all the symbolism (I got a little focused on how jasper can be clear as crystal!) but my big takeaway is that it will be stunningly beautiful and other worldly and yet we will so very much Belong there!
It reminds me that there are faithless people who never hear the Gospel. It’s our job to scatter the seeds for God to grow the fruit and we have a lot of work to do before he comes back and that could be so soon!!
Learning about the New Jerusalem and the magnificent glory of God within it fills me with a desire to experience it. May my longing for it surpass any other earthly desire I may have – this is my prayer.
Amen to the Light!!
Let the Lord God be my light. And from His love and light may we all shine here on earth in so much darkness. God wants us to be with him. Even well I have fallen short on prayer and devotion to God he has found a way to call out to me through others, books, subtle reminders. Be the light from God that might bring someone else back to Him. I am excited for eternal peace and light.
Lord you are glorious and all you have is glorious and wonderful. I look forward to being in your presence and because of Jesus I can – returning to a perfect Eden with the tree of Life – wow – until then, may the church, your bride
In this life today with all that’s going on, I don’t know what it would be like without darkness. It will be a sight to experience and soak in. Come Lord Jesus! My what a time that will be!
God reigns forever. This just makes my soul cry. I want my name to be written in the book of life. I don’t want to be one who goes to the second death. I want to live my life now as a child of God doing better everyday and allowing him to transform me to the woman he created me to be. I just know it will be beautiful rejoicing with our savior.
Sounds wonderful!
These passages remind me that Jesus is returning SOON! We need to prepare our hearts for that moment
I pushed post before I was ready lol.
Darkness is so pervasive and undermining and hard to navigate well and wisely. But the LIGHT seems so freeing and peaceful and can penetrate any crevice or crag that the darkness of sin, evil, or the devil has penetrated. It’s reassuring to know I’m able to be the LIGHT to others and show them that something new is coming, and it’s good and full of LIGHT.
My current understanding of eternity seems less than this description. This reading clarified to me that the new heaven and the new earth are not just clouds and shiny things. It’s going to be full of nature, people, animals, but also full of LIGHT. This world has been ruled over by darkness that my first thoughts of the passages were “too much light is exhausting” but now I’m more inclined to say that “too much darkness is draining me of life.”
These passages bring me such peace in knowing my future and His glory that surpasses my understanding. Yet an immense urgency to be a light into this dark world in hopes those I love don’t perish. I struggle with the growing disregard of holiness but yet know because scriptures say to focus on following Him and not caught up on the actions of others so I don’t quickly become a Pharisee and not a light.
I kept thinking of the song “This little light of mine” throughout the reading. I need to SHINE BRIGHT as much as I can during the present knowing that GOD IS OUR LIGHT FOR ETERNITY!
Our life here on earth is a vapor. And we are so quick to forget it. Change my heart Lord.
The idea of God, the Holy of Holies declaring his place is to dwell among us.. incredible.
It stands out to me that it repeatedly says there will be only light no darkness!
In our current world where there is such divide and hate, it is hard for me to understand a place without pain and suffering and tears and death. I would be lying if I said I am not scared of dying. I am not without sin and while forgiven, there is a part of me afraid of rejection.
My human mind can’t even fathom a place where there is no death, crying, grief or pain along with all the other things such as anxiety and fear. I think of all the “scary things” that happen in the dark and to think that night will be no more is such a beautiful image.
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So beautiful, suffering ceases. This creates an urgency in my soul to be a light unto this dark world. Thank you for sharing!
No devotional?
God’s word is so convicting – I’m nauseous lol
Lord, let me be disciplined in preparing myself for your coming. I feel like this scripture reinforces what I discussed following the reading yesterday— that my goals for the New Year are to live everyday so that He may say “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Revelation is a “scary” book to read, however, it is so important to consider the reality of it too.
I always grew up thinking revelation was
I think it’s hard to comprehend fully what eternity with God will be like. As a kid I pictured the best of the best and gold, light, happiness, but I’ll never really know until I hopefully get there! I’m looking forward to it immensely and pray that I will be there with God.
I don’t know what heaven is going to look like. I just know from within my heart how beautiful it will be when I see God’s face.
This reading has clarified my perspective, because it reassured me that if I don’t live a godly and righteous life now and forever, I won’t be apart of the new heaven and new earth. It reassured me that I don’t want to be left behind.
Its certainly true that we are created for good works, though we are not saved by them. “The rughteous will live by faith”
This is the first time I have not been so very scared reading Revelations! I’ve been getting back in touch with the more “fantastical” things I used to love growing up and recognizing my love of ethereal things and otherworldly seeming things might stem from thing such as what is described in Revelations! It is very cool, most “fantasy nerds” are pretty much atheist or maybe humanist, but I always found that odd – where does that attraction to something outside of our natural world come from? Sorry these are probably very random musings but I hope maybe someone else will relate ?
We will be so safe in Heaven.
To add, I feel a conviction in this piece of scripture for not striving for the good perfect and pure things and Gods will. I thank God for His forgiveness but I ask that I can not only strive for these things but to want to strive for them over my own desires.
It clarified my understanding of a holy city being present. A very beautiful one.
The passage spoke to me by reminding me that even though I am saved, I still need to strive to do the right thing. He will punish the liars and adulterers and etc. and He will bless the righteous ones.
Amen! Same for me!
I don’t think often of the actual meaning of eternity – my human mind can’t wrap itself around the idea that something will never end…but I love the imagery of light in these passages, and that what I think of as light (sun, moon, lamps, etc.) will be unnecessary because of the brilliance of God’s radiance and glory.
Sara I love this light imagery too!
With my severe anxiety, I don’t spend a lot of time thinking about eternity- one thing my therapist encourages me to do is focus on the here and now, to find ways to be grounded. I’m excited to spend forever in the New Heaven and New Earth, but I think right now, my focus needs to be on nurturing my faith, my kid’s faith, and showing God’s grace and love to my high school students who don’t know God’s love. I feel peace with these thoughts, and I associate peace with Jesus.
I too struggle with anxiety, thank you for being vulnerable in sharing. I’ll be praying the Lord fan your flames, His light grow in and through you to this next generation.
Honestly do not like this format. I like a devotional reading that guides and evokes thought. This format really only works for those using the workbook. I will be in and out checking on everyone but probably going to pass on this. I have a study coming up at church and I may just use that one.
I liked the devotional as well. This format is hard for me to follow
Is the workbook different? This is my first one. My book hasn’t arrived.
Sometimes reading only confuses me more. I find Joy in knowing that I am going to a place that there will not be any pain and suffering. My anxiety and fear will be replaced with Joy and that is a feeling I eagerly anticipate! However, Revelations makes me wonder things too. Will the idolizes not make it to Heaven? Will the liars not make it? Will the sexually immoral not make it? I am so scared about not making it to Heaven. I know I’m saved, and I fully believe in God, but sometimes I can’t help but be fearful.
Even though we don’t know the specifics, to know that, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; grief, crying, and pain will be no more, because the previous things have passed away,” gives me such peace knowing that is what we have to look forward to. Bless you ladies! ♥️
❤ loving the daily reading.
Eternity sounds like a long time, an obviously it is but I think my human understanding can’t and probably won’t fully wrap around what eternity actually is. The scriptures give it a more tactile and structural understanding but it almost seems dream like. Its all very hard to fathom but I just want to be where Jesus is and hold hands :)
Michelle Patire I agree with what you said about us wrestling with what He does reveal and leave the rest, and be at peace with what we can’t grasp. It was only until I was able to suspend my need to have all the answers that I was able to fully surrender my life to Jesus. Also to those worrying about salvation of their loved ones, I get it. I like to think they will have one more chance and when faced with Jesus, won’t be able to say no to him.
I don’t think about what eternity will be like exactly, all I know is that there is an eternity and I want to be there. I like this description I just read. It gives me hope & peace.
In the beginning of Revelation (chapter 1, verse 3), there is a blessing for anyone who reads Revelation. You read it, you get blessed. This is the only book of the Bible to do so. I think that is so amazing and clearly something God desires from His people. I’m thankful for mercy and forgiveness, so that the Lord will allow a sinner like me into heaven and take delight in the new world where there is no sin.
These passages reminded me of how beautiful it will be, and how content we will be because God himself will dwell among us. Praise the Lord!!
I was SO excited to have read the entire book of Revelation over the last couple of weeks for my daily scripture reading of the Bible in a year, chronologically. Very revealing, interesting and mind blowing at the same time of what it will be like in the last years and days. If that doesn’t make you want to share Jesus with others I don’t know what will. Man there is a lot of great stuff to unpack in Revelation and such great poetic graphic and dramatic descriptives used by John of what he was told and shown. Everything comes into place and perspective for me in the readings today.
Love you SHES! Here is to a new year of new beginnings in more ways than we can think or dream of. Hoping that we all grow in more knowledge and more grace-filled days are ahead. Love and Hugs, ❤️❤️
The book of revelations is always scary to read ! It makes me reflect to see if I’m living the Christ way so I’ll be ready for his return!! It also makes me think about my loved ones are we all living right so we can all rejoice together in the house of the lord !
Same! I have struggled with revelation and anxiety for years
In God’s love and grace, He did not seal this prophecy found in Revelation.
We will see the Goodness of God- eternity is a beautiful concept for believers, stay encouraged!
This is truly a hard concept for me to wrap my head around. Eternity with God is immaculate to a degree that words cannot even capture, and my heart must be ready.
Eternity is hard for humans to comprehend. It’s hard to imagine a place where evil does not exist, because as humans we’re born into sin and constantly surrounded by it.
This is such a great point. The beauty and peace is so hard to imagine in a physical sense because all we have lived is an evil world. Reading these passages truly brings me peace to get a tiny glimpse of what it will be when God brings us home!
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Just a good reminder that we are to be ready. It is easy to forget in the business of life.
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I’ll be honest, I don’t like the book of Revelation. It feels scary and full of threats, like a story a parent might tell a child to make them behave. And as a child who often behaves in ways that are far from Godly, I don’t see myself as one of the names who is called from the book of life. I struggle to see a Father who is good, faithful, full of grace, all I see is my younger brothers, friends, husband, burning for eternity. How can I picture forever if that future involves some of the people who I love the most suffering terrible and permanent torment. I can’t, so I give it to Jesus to carry and avoid reading revelation. Am I the only one?
It is hard to fathom that loved ones will not be in Heaven. It is interesting though because when in Heaven we won’t remember all of those that are not there. That has given me a strange acceptance. I think we’ve all struggled with this area. It is wise to give it to Jesus. And in that I know He will grow us deeper into maturity & to learn more of who God is & His motives. Revelation can be scary, I just thought that in todays reading. But it also encouraged me to keep witnessing to unbelievers & letting God guide me. It’s a choice that we all have to decide. But it’s ours to make. So whichever way we choose, that determines where we ultimately go.
I completely understand, but I think Revelations is still a book of grace and mercy. Think about why you chose to follow Him and all the good He has done for you. Humanity are the ones who failed Him, when He made us perfect in the garden of Eden. Everyone presented the gospel has the choice to return back to the purpose He created us for. If we choose sin, we are going against our purpose, even when He calls us by name countless times. People who don’t enter heaven do so, because humanity and the enemy opened that door, not because God wanted to cast them out due to His own want. I hope this makes sense. Of course them not going to heaven is sad, we love them. But we have to love them enough to preach them the Gospel and give them the choice to go to heaven.
Not at all. I’ve also often avoided reading revelation for some of these same reasons.
I am with you on this
My soul aches for the people I love who may fall short, but who am I to assume they will? I find comfort in knowing that I will spend my days bettering myself to get closer to God and pray it will inspire my loved ones to join. Don’t be sad, rejoice in it! Pray for them to draw near to him.
I wonder what this new heaven and earth will be like. Will it remind us of the old heaven and earth, or will it be completely different? Sometimes it’s hard for me to comprehend just how amazing heaven will be since I can’t fully understand it.
Sometimes I feel like my suffering is great, and then I read Scripture that reminds me of others that endured suffering and those who have yet to suffer, and I am reminded that this journey ends in glory with God, and I find peace.
I listened to the podcast today and was so encouraged. I have always held the get saved today, enjoy heaven at some time in the distant future, slog it out in between mindset. I am so thankful for the correction to my perspective. Seeing that God has already started making things new and setting things back on the right path makes me more optimistic. I have been so down on everything lately. Literally just thinking come Lord Jesus, COME! Now with this perspective I see what I do as a way of being part of God setting things back to right.
I think my perspective is the same, but I do have some curious thoughts. I wonder if the new heaven that John saw will be the same or different now since our times have changed. Hope that makes sense! Like structurally if what John saw will be different since we build things differently now. If things will be more simple or more complex. I don’t know random thoughts on a Tuesday filtering in. LOL!
I am glad to reaffirm what is true about our Lord and Savior bringing us in to the new and that the old will die away.
I think eternity is a hard concept fur humans to understand. I think what John saw was so magnificent and awesome that it was probably hard to even put into words we understand. When I think of eternity all I think of is “forever”. But what is described is so much more than that! I know interpretations may vary but they generally align with the idea of a transcendent and everlasting existence. No death or sickness, grief or sadness. It’s a new heaven, earth, and eternal life in the presence of God, a sense of ultimate hope and fulfillment. ❤️
It is an exciting time to live as a follower of Jesus Christ. Today’s scriptures remind us of time and eternity. He tells us He is coming soon. It is sooner now than it has ever been. I think that those of us who believe the Truth of God’s Word are more aware of eternity than we’ve ever been in light of world circumstances. I for one, look forward to “that day.” There are those who do not know or believe or are oblivious to the reality of time running out. Others believe in god, but deny the Truth of His Word. It may not be for a month, a year, a decade, a century or more, but the day of Christ’s return is imminent. Praise God. Come LORD!
I’m so thankful for Jesus Christ- the perfect sacrifice- so that I can one day experience this heaven! Without him, we will never get there. I’m also thankful for a God who loves us and wants to be with us!!!
Every aspect of heaven itself is bent on worship to God and exalting his holiness. If we are meant to be a glimpse to the world of his kingdom, then how am I displaying worship day and night before the Lord? Convicting.
God is calling us to Him
We are living in a time in which the awareness of eternity is fading away. So reading the passage from today, it is helping me to analyze, think and reflect how I must live my life. Consistently washing in the blood of Jesus
❤️
“The leaves of the trees are for the healing of the nations.” I really want to know more about this promise and what it means, since my biggest burden these days is how much war and cruelty is going on everywhere.
Welcome to so many She’s!
Many comments, wowzer! That’s great, it’s like Lent!
The song “Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine” came to mind for some reason for me. I can’t imagine, it will be more than I could fathom, but thankfully I have that blessed assurance that I will be there, so I try to leave it at that in my simple mind, and like some of you said, concentrate on “living for then, by showing and doing it here.”
@Serching, I kinda thought exactly what you wrote!
@Traci- That was so touching, that you saw Tanner with a smile! Thanks for sharing!
@Who explained the kings being there of the nations, I was a little confused there as well!
I really want to purchase the app SO I can comment under comments!! I wish we could get a notification when someone does reply to you!
I had to move from the app to the website because the comments kept jumping up and down and I couldn’t keep my place.
My thoughts about eternity have changed throughout my life. The more I studied my Bible and heard and pondered other Christian’s’ thoughts about it, I change my own thoughts. I actually think that no matter how wonderful I picture eternity as, I can’t even scratch the surface. I don’t think John had the human words to describe what he was seeing when writing Revelation. And in all the centuries since he wrote it, we still haven’t invented words to describe it. I find so much comfort in knowing there will be no death, no sickness, no sadness. Jesus is the light. We will finally be able to fall at His feet and worship Him. If we could glimpse it now, I’m sure it would take our breath away. I truly look forward to the day Jesus comes to take me to live with Him forever. I join others in saying, “Come Lord Jesus, come.”
I have two words for this year. The first is PRESENCE because I long to feel God’s Presence every second of every day. I want to keep my mind on Him, so that His Presence always fills me.
The second word is JOY. I’ve been amazed since my diagnosis that I have felt a sense of joy in my heart. The symptoms have lessened, and I know God is answering prayers to slow the progression of my memory loss. This is bringing a sense of joy to every day. I want to focus on that joy.
I welcome all the new readers and commenters. And I’m writing each prayer request in my notebook, and praying as I read them. I pray blessings upon each of you, dear She sisters.
I learned a couple things from todays reading:
1-there will not be night in the New Jerusalem due to there always being light from God’s and Jesus’s presence
2-there will be no temple in the New Jerusalem because God and Jesus are the temple
Also, Revelation 22:1-2 created such a beautiful image in my mind ❤️❤️❤️
And our grandson was born today! Over a week late but perfect. Thank you God for another miracle.
Let the evil doers do evil. Hmm. Ok, mind my business. I desire to live with him in his new earth. Dear God I pray for me & my family, for generations to come, to be followers of you.
Lord, help me to always be ready for your arrival and help me to aide in equipping my children, family and friends. Lord help me to always choose you. Thank You for never giving up on me! Thank You Lord for loving me first, always and unconditionally! I am so unworthy but You say I am!
I’m amazed at reading Revelation 21:1-3. It is like reading this after the season of Advent and reflecting on His name Emmanuel illuminated His embodiment of that name in the end times as well. God’s dwelling is WITH humanity and He will live WITH them. They will be his peoples, and God himself will be WITH them and will be their God.
Yesss!! I also absolutely lovedddd those verses
❤️❤️
I feel so moved by the references to light in these descriptions… the name “Bright Morning Star” to describe Jesus, the concept of the lamb of God being the light and “lamp” in a city that shines so brightly that there is never any night. As someone who struggles most with anxiety and fear in the late nights, I am so comforted by the concept of experiencing constant light with our “Bright Morning Star”. It sounds so warm, welcoming, comforting, and reassuring.
❤️
Heaven is a beautiful, holy and righteous place. God’s throne is in Heaven. This reminds me of Paul’s urging to us, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, to run the race with endurance and discipline toward the goal that is eternal life. “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable.” May we persevere. And may we pray for those who reject the salvation that is so great. May spiritual blindness and ignorance be destroyed. Eternity has a purpose. Glory be to our God who has a plan for us, even for eternity, a plan to prosper us, to give us hope and a future with HIM. Happy New Year with many blessings to you. Be blessed dear sisters.
You will wipe away All tears from our eyes. There will be no more death, no more grief or crying or pain. The old things have disappeared. “And now I make all things new!” This promise is contrary to my experience here on earth, and it is what I hope and long for, not just for me, but for all those who long for Jesus. Praying for all things new in 2024!
We can go to our Father who has no beginning or end. He is our light Hallelujah
The Spirit and the Bride say come. It’s free. There will be a day when we can’t choose Him anymore. But those that did choose him – wow! Heaven is so radiant and beautiful! God’s desires – for everyone to have access with no price, to dwell with man, and for nations to be healed! Breaks my heart that some are stubbornly refusing His grace, mercy and love now.
As someone who just recently opened my heart to Jesus I found it so hard to imagine that I deserve the life after death that is promised. I look forward to continuing to walk with him and learning to be worthy of all he has to offer.
NO MORE death, morning, crying or pain! No more!! Its HIS promise! And I believe it! I believe HIS WORD! I can’t wait!! Happy Tuesday morning sweet She’s. Still enjoying my time OFF and sleeping in. I’m SO blessed to be here with all of you. Can’t wait to meet you all someday!
It’s hard to picture todays reading … but I lean on worshipping God and staying focused on what He wants to show me and teach me in this study.
Today’s readings made me think of Tanner. After he died, I saw him on my right side with a huge beautiful smile. His illness caused muscle weakness and the corners of his mouth no longer could lift up, but they were lifted!
I too am ready to be with our Maker. This world is becoming harder and harder to be in. I’m always saying, “Why can’t people be nicer, kinder? They world could be so much better.” One day we will have that! Glory to God!!
Gods kingdom is everything light and joy. If I’m able to help others see that light, the more gods kingdom grows. I won’t be able to reach everyone but if I start with those nearest to me, I will help grow gods kingdom. It’s about the beauty of gods word and how we can influence its continuance in our world on earth until we reach his kingdom in heaven.
I am learning the Bible. What resonated with me were all of the references to light. I learned that there is no night in heaven and that the light that shines comes from God. That’s beautiful.
“ I will give to everyone according to what he has done” “ Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.” I’m ready to start a new year where my robe is clean and my life points to Jesus.
This verse always gives me shivers: “The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come.’” The thought of eternity has always made me a bit fearful; it’s so hard for me to understand what it will be like & that unknown is hard to hold onto or hope for. But God invites us to come—that is His hope for us. And He gives us full assurance that our hope & our faith will not be for naught. So as He asks me to come, I will follow Him.
@jessica hesselink – love your comment about God breaking the barrier. What a great way to think about it. @Megan Warlick – I agree I tend to avoid scriptures that don’t make a lot of sense to me too but I love that you pulled out these words are faithful and true. What a great reminder.
The new heaven and earth will be magnificent. Bright shining and filled with God’s glory!
There is much revealed in the book of Revelation, as well as the many passages in other books that correlate with this one. Yet, much remains a mystery. With our limited understanding, we can only imagine so far. God’s understanding goes beyond ours. We should wrestle with what He does reveal, and be at peace with what we can not grasp in our finite human state. We wait until the redemption of our bodies… Romans 8:23
❤️ keep coming to His word, Shes. God bless you all. ✝️
So excited to see what God does with this study and teach me. This topic was popping up multiple times at the end of 2023- starting with Revelation sermon series at church. God, open my eyes and heart to learn more about you.
Who is and Who was; reign forever; God will dwell with man; wipe every tear; no more death, mourning, crying, pain; brilliant light that will not have an on and off switch as it is from God’s glory, no shut or closed gate (safety!), no impurities enter; worship God not the messenger; a pure, clear river flowing from God’s throne.
These descriptions of the new heaven are hopeful. 2023 has been a tough year for me – my marriage, death of a parent, having my mom in memory care and not recognizing anyone, trying to find a home in this crazy market…in reading yesterday and today’s passages I am reminded that this is temporary. What is to come is forever and ever and it is gloriously good!!
I often times don’t read Revelation because it’s scary and confusing. Some of the passages from today are describing images that I can’t even begin to picture. But I do love the part that says “these words are faithful and true”. He keeps his promises and one day we will get to be reunited with him where there is no darkness, no pain, no death. And I think that’s beautiful.
KAREN B – My curiosity was teased by that verse also. (Rev. 21:24) and after searching many places I came back to the Logos app and found this: “21:24 the nations Fulfills the OT hope that the nations and foreign kings would come to Jerusalem to worship God (see Isaiah 2:1-3).”
Any impurity I carry will be washed away from me at the gate by the blood of Jesus according to one of the study notes I read. That reminds me that there is no perfection this side of heaven, but all who call on His name in sincerity (whose name is in the Lamb’s book of life) will be ckeansed for entry, whether that person is an earthly ruler or just a regular person like me.
So much detail! Love all your comments and questions, sisters!
SEARCHING – ❤❤
When I read the scriptures, I failed to understand.
Heaven and eternity are the same thing
I don’t understand what scripture means by “I’m making everything new”
Heaven is not our end goal. Heaven is our waiting place until God breaks the barrier between Heaven and Earth. :-) Eternity is where we will come to live side by side with God. Imagine going back to the beginning in Genesis where Adam and Eve lived with God in the garden. There was no barrier between them. Now, we live in Earth and God resides in Eternity. Only when God breaks the barrier between Heaven and Earth will we be truly with God.
Revelation is an interesting book to read. If we see those outside the gates, will our hearts not mourn for those? I hope Jesus helps open my heart and mind for a better understanding. Focusing on God – our savior Jesus Christ coming back and us all being at home ❤️
There is real peace that comes when I read that Jesus is coming back again & everything that is askew will be made new. This helps me to understand more deeply the freedom there is to focus on loving well the people that surround me. I may not be able to fix what is taking place in their lives, but I can be the love of Jesus & I can share the HOPE of his return! Eternity is now & yet to come!
I’ve studied Revelations at various times over the years so I’m not sure that today’s readings clarified or changed my (limited) understanding by much. God and His plans, design and wisdom are far beyond what I can grasp. May I put my trust in Him and His Word.
What the readings did do – reminded me to stay focused on Jesus, to live my life preparing for His return, while at the same time to live my life in a way that reflects Him. Difficult to stay focused with all the distractions of work and family dynamics.
DESTINY GILBERT, AMY NOBBE & other new Christians – so glad you are studying with us!
TARA B – praying for your aunt and family, also for you and your husband in the separation
JACELYN RODRIGUEZ – praying as you walk the unexpected path
MEAGAN WARLICK – so sorry about your friend! Praying for her son in NICU, and for her husband and family in the sorrow of their loss
FREDRICKA WORSHAM – praying for comfort in your grief
It really is difficult to put such powerful words and descriptions into a picture but I trust you Lord that everything you promise is more than we could possibly fathom. Leaning into faith and understanding with Christ in 2024 ❤️
It’s always interesting to read these passages from Revelation after having just read Genesis 1-3 in my daily reading plan. He made all things perfect, but sin marred everything. In Revelation we see that He will restore all things with an even greater beauty.
Grateful for his grace for we all make mistakes but we can also redeem ourselves from any shortcomings
I think of the song Wanted by Hunter Hayes. We all (at least my friends and I) want so desperately to feel wanted and chosen- not a second thought but a priority- similar to how the song says. And Revelations talks about how He is moving heaven and earth to dwell with us and make us His people- meaning He wants us. He chooses us. We are His priority. We are not forgotten. There is a peace (at least for me) to know that I am wanted by someone who wants to be with me forever. It’s really beautiful. I am wanted.
Our perfect King will rule the nations – Jesus
I have a hard time reconciling that we will rejoice at those in heaven but not mourn those who are not there. It’s hard to wrap my brain around but I pray for more understanding and peace
I’ve been taught that we don’t miss those who were never born in the first place. So we won’t mourn those in Heaven. There’s no sorrow there. It seems like a very simplistic way to think about it, but it has helped my little mind!
I am curious about the tree of life, whose leaves bring healing to the nations. What kind of healing does the US need? Much to ponder. I cannot wait till these promises are fulfilled. I am weary of life… but my hope is my Jesus Christ.
When asked today about my understanding of eternity all I could think of was ME- I will meet all the loved ones lost too soon, I will feel no more sorrow and pain, I will be made new … then I thought about the BIGGER picture and remembered it’s not about you Allison it’s about God. God is making all things new for HIS glory. Lord take my selfish heart and mold it to be more like yours, give me a heart of understanding and selflessness, help me Lord focus on more of you and less of me! Happy Tuesday She’s- wishing you a blessed New Year!
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I have trouble picturing what was described in today’s reading. It’s like a dream. It’s so foreign to the heartache and life we live today. I pray for more belief and to see this with new eyes that can imagine this as reality.
❤️❤️ same!
I am excited and cannot wait till the final verses of Scripture are fulfilled. There will be terrible times between now and then but living in a world without evil will be nothing short of phenomenal. Think of life on earth where everything is eden-like.
I’m thinking about the water of life and the tree of life. It has refined my vision. I’m particularly drawn today to the leaves for healing of nations which we need now more than ever.
Alpha & Omega… Light!❤️
Good Morning Shes. I confess whatever knowledge or understanding I possess about the New Heaven & the New Earth continues to shape-shift. The Book of Revelation in my humble mind is dream imagery, a startling vision of the ultimate triumph good over evil. Granted to apostle John by the Holy Spirit. I admit my problems with literal translation or surface interpretation of the end times. I, like some may have a complicated history of feeling intimidated & downright afraid of reading this Book of the the Bible. Because of the challenging picture it paints. So here I am, in this fresh reading, part of the community study plan, still contemplating what Revelation is really saying. And how, in all honesty, I might strive to live into the redemptive story. Which Israel sought then & the people of God still seek now. Not waiting for either melodrama or trauma. But trying to practice our theology in serious study & intimate conversation & active good works alongside others right here & now. My “revelation” of my own ignorance or insights in this community forum may be foolhardy & sacrilegious. Yet I am moved to make honest comment for overall reflection & conversation. I hope SRT can be the place where we each can express wonder & doubt & lift opinions or observations which could be controversial in goodness & grace. Seeing & being people of God & wanting & willing to do Kingdom work in the here & now…not waiting complacently or either in terror for some event “out there”. Still in a hopeful posture.
Written with all humility by me, on the dawning of this day.
Light + Love
I can’t imagine either except that I just picture a throne (as I have seen in movies) with clear water running from it and trees on each side. I’m sure the Lord chuckles when he sees my mind. But we have finite minds, and bless our hearts, we are limited. I know it will be far greater than I imagine, as Paul told us. Not dwelling on it because it’s not our time yet. I’m going to dwell on doing the good works that God prepared for me to complete. Praying we all grow more confident in our walk with God, and that we can boldly witness to others! Thank you for your post!
❤️
I’m so thankful God’s story doesn’t revolve around me getting to Heaven but rather His restoration of ALL things to its perfect and right place. That perspective gives me so much hope, joy, and peace. And I’m more thankful than ever for Jesus and for Him making the Way for me to participate on this beautiful, big story, now and for eternity.
Heaven will be oh. so. glorious!
I have often made comment to others, that Jesus could come back any time, and I would be ok with that. They (some Christian’s even!) respond that they have kids/grandkids and focus on being with them now. I guess I get that, but at the same time, I TOTALLY DON’T! I understand those feelings more for those who aren’t saved because this world is all they have. But for those of us that are saved…
Come, Lord Jesus!
Amen !
I think it helps me to see that heaven will not be like anything we can conceive in our finite minds. It will be a place of light not darkness, good not evil. A place of restoration! Full of the glory of the Lord.
January 2
Revelation 21:
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’[b] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Father, thank you for dwelling with me. You are always with me and you are my God! Oh the hope I have in you. No more tears, suffering death and pain are my inheritance!
It is still difficult for me to fathom what heaven will be like. But the idea that there’s never mourning, suffering, and or pain – that is moving. The Scripture mentions multiple times that God is the only source of light there, which is incredible to me.
He says come. Be included. Be part of the thing that is greater. It is a choice. Does your heart long for it? If so worship him. For he loves you.
I am thankful to be a sinner saved by his grace. I am thankful God can heal our broken world. z
@JaneBlore It is striking that God would restore the earth and the people that belong to Him. Thank you for your insight. What stood out to me was that there will be no night. I knew the glory of the Lord was so bright that you didn’t need any other source of light but I didn’t realize that this meant there would be no night. It is the opposite of creation. ”And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.“
Revelation 22:5 ESV
”The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.“
Genesis 1:2 ESV
@stephanieBerling I didn’t remember that before either. No night seems unthinkable. Another illustration of how we have no idea really how it will be, but how we will be with Jesus and that’s enough to know for now.
I’m struck by the idea that God will restore a broken earth rather than start over. I’m broken but God intends to heal me too. My value is not lost because of my brokenness.
Thank you for all the prayers yesterday. Please keep them coming. I believe there is healing for my anxiety.
Love this perspective!
I worry about the environment. When I drive past forests being replaced with factories, when I can’t figure out how to recycle l because my city doesn’t have that service. This reading have reframed those thoughts for me. Because when the New Kingdom comes we won’t even need a Sun. Amen.
“No longer will there be any curse.” (Revelation 22:3) Hallelujah! I try to imagine what that will look like but it’s beyond my imagination because all we have ever known is a cursed world. But I do believe that it will be more beautiful than the most beautiful place on earth!…In this new year I want to be conscious of the fact that Jesus IS coming soon and try to live my life as if He were coming today!
@Arionna G. – Yes, you are correct – we are saved by grace through faith alone. But what we often miss in the Ephesians 2:8-10 passage is verse 10: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Works do not save us, but once we are saved – we should desire to do good works to please our Savior.
@Karen B. – what I read concerning Revelation 21:26 is that “its difficult to understand, and different commentators have different suggestions.” And this explanation from Bible Ref -“We cannot be explicitly sure what the term “glory and honor of the nations” represents. Perhaps the regenerate kings will present the best works of the millennial kingdom to be exhibited in New Jerusalem. Perhaps they will be paying homage to God. Of course, all that is accomplished as worth presenting to God is achieved only by God’s grace and Christ’s strength. Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). What the kings bring to New Jerusalem, they had first received from our heavenly Father.” Hope it’s helpful.
Have a blessed day my She sisters. ❤️
I’m grateful to be a sinner saved by grace. My heart longs for those that aren’t under His salvation to know Him. And it longs for me to know know Him more so that the peace of the knowledge of Heaven leads me more than the anxieties of this world.
A great reminder that everything is made for his glory. Truly something I can’t even envision waiting on us!
I think the statements that pretty much summarizes what the new heaven and new earth are :
* Death will be no more
* He will wipe away every tear from their eyes
The world has gone crazier and crazier each day that it makes me wonder when will these things stop? Things are not getting any better. And yet, our sovereign God gives us hope and assurance that everything will be fine. Things are pretty bad out here but He holds everything in the palm of His hands.
No eye has seen and no ear has heard the glory that awaits us in His glorious coming.
So we wait. We wait in joy and in peace. PAX
❤️
I watched the sound of freedom last night so I was comforted reading how Jesus will return and the sexually immoral will be thrown into the lake of fire. I’m so ready for Jesus to come back and get us
It is a struggle for me right now to put the first things first, to put my King first. I am so quick to rush and think, “I will have time later,” but that time does not come. I lean on the fact that I will have the weekend to catch up, but sometimes, this does not happen. “Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it…” Father, help me to stick close to You and greater value our time together, which should be all day long. Help me to seek You first. I love You, Abba. Amen.
I’ve never really loved the book of Revelations. The imagery is vague and odd and I’m more of a “no one really knows so I’ll just see it when I get there” kind of person. Then when I had young kids, my mantra became “come Lord Jesus!” as in “get me outta this chaos!” But now… yes I long for eternity with Jesus. But there is much to do on this earth. There are people living in “hell on earth” and they need to see the light of Jesus through me. I want to focus on Heaven as less of a destination I’ll get to one day, and more of a mindset of how I should be living my days now.
ARIONNA – thank you for your thoughtful question and everyone who so thoughtfully answered!
I feel the presence of God and long for this place when I read the words!
21:3 – and I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people.”
22:4 – They will see his face…
Praise God for His presence now with his gift of the Holy Spirit. I cannot wait until we are fully in His presence!
This past year, I’ve struggled with my connection to feeling God’s presence. My life feels like a constant buzz. Even at church it wanders to my todo list making it harder to stay present. My word for 2024 is connection primarily to God but also people and family, friends, communities. As I quietly sit by my fire and read the scripture as well as all your beautiful reflections, I have hope and I can see the places God has been reaching for me in my life.
It is hard to comprehend God being the only light needed and what heaven will be like. Growing up envisioning mansions everywhere does not even hold a candle to how this is described.
What jumped out at me today was “no more curse”! From Genesis onward every single aspect of our life on earth has been tainted by the curse that resulted from the first sin. Praise the Lord that this day of everything new is coming!
@LeAnn Schmitt, “no more curse” jumped out at me, too. I had to stop to read it again aloud. Wow. No more curse! It’s a heavy and holy thought. Hallelujah! Life as we know it will be completely different.
What really gets me is every time I read that God is the temple and light. There won’t be a need for the sun or the moon. (Rev 21:22,23)
Wow! So exciting and beautifully terrifying in the same instance.
MARIA BAER I agree. It’s hard to even fathom how awesome it will be. ❤️
The moment when Jesus returns what glory it will be. Reading this morning I just hope and pray I will see him coming to be with him in his new kingdom. Jesus will defeat satan and all the evil in this world once and for all. I can only imagine and pray for everyone to be able to be in his light.
It is difficult to grasp with my human mind but I am looking forward to seeing it one day!
Wow
Ive read this many times, and every time I get excited for this time to come. To see Jesus, my Savior, face to face…to have God be the light for this future Kingdom, with no more tears or death or sorrow, suffering or pain. It’s too amazing for words. We will be together for all of eternity. The details, I’m unsure of, and I don’t know exactly how it all will look or all it means…but I eagerly await this time and pray I’m busy about my Fathers business until Jesus’ returns!!!
As I read the scriptures for today I couldn’t help but be reminded of His promise to us and how amazing he is to us. I am so unworthy and yet he makes me worthy of all this and more. I am truly grateful that I get to experience a relationship with him and share this with my brothers and sisters.
God is so beyond our comprehension. This description in Revelation magnifies how different life will be in His presence. Fully abiding and walking with Him without limitations.
As I read today’s scripture, I was struck with my inability (and this is good) to conceptualize in my head what the new Jerusalem will look like, based on its description. I have an idea, but is vague. And that only tells me that God’s kingdom and glory is so vast that we cannot truly comprehend how amazing it will be. Revelation has become a favorite book of mine, because of the hope it brings me. And my favorite verse today was 22:16 because it is a coming full circle moment for me— all the prophecies that started in the OT come to this moment by Jesus addressing himself by the names we so love: “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” Goosebumps every time I read this. It is like taking a deep breath as we overwhelmingly sigh in relief “You are here, Lord. The promise is alive. Lord Jesus, the King of Kings is here.” And I cannot wait for that moment. Be blessed, sisters. ❤️
This was me!!!
♥️
Yes!
When I read this it is hard to imagine. We are so used to going through trials and tribulations that to imagine it all being gone is wonderful. To bask in His glory and worship and be enveloped by His presence, what a wonderful a peaceful thought.
In recent years the beauty of the restoration of the New Heavens and New Earth have came alive in my heart. I now understand what people mean when they say they long for it. I have seen the sheer evil that abounds first hand and look forward to a day when everything will be made right. I truly cannot wait to see Jesus
KC, this is so true. It has been in recent years for me to, that I have come to understand why people long for Christ’s coming. And now it has become like a beacon in this dark world, giving me hope.
I’m struck with the frequent mention of being thirsty. Are we thirsty for God? Am I thirsty for God? Only He can satisfy.
I was struck by that, and immediately took me back to the story of the Samaritan woman. Only He can satisfy indeed.
I noticed that too, probably because I am currently reading “Well Watered Woman” by Gretchen Saffles. “To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life “ Rev. 21:6
Morning, SRTs!
I’m wondering about Rev 22:24-26 which mentions the glory and honor of kings and nations. Why would we want the glory of worldly rulers when God, the perfect king will reign? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
I think it means that all the glory in the world is welcomed into the city of God in worship to Him, not that we will be awed by human things.
Karen B – I have always read that to mean that all of the kings and nations will be giving glory and honor to Christ our King
The moment of seeing Jesus. That is what has drawn me in this morning. To see His face after what i pray is a life lead displaying His grace, mercy, joy, peace, even in hard times. We have only been given glimpses…To Behold Him.
To see our Savior face to face, thank Him for his sacrifice, and praise His name forever…what a day it will be!
❤️
I tend not to think about the New Heaven and the New Earth, it can be scary if you are not preparing for it. But this passage brought hope and a reminder that this is not my final place and everything I do should be for the glory of God. I want to work on remembering this at all times, not just when big things happen.
I struggle at times to understand the new heavens and to be honest it’s something I don’t think of often. I still have a childlike idea of heaven that is very simple. I’m grateful to be reading these passages together and that my heart can know more fully what is in store.
Grateful for the description of the new Heaven and the new Earth. And for God’s gift of eternal life there with Him! Have a wonderful day She’s!
Good morning y’all! Reading these verses gives my heart so much hope for eternity because I will be able to live in His glorious LIGHT in the new heaven. I can’t wait to witness it with my own eyes and dance in His presence.
Amen! Glory to God in the Highest! Reading this has truly opened my eyes to God’s promises and love for me and His people!
Prior to doing a previous #shereadstruth study on #revelation I was so afraid to read that book because of the fear that I had based on what other people said. I even avoided doing #readthebibleinayear studies. After completing that study, I found peace reading the imagery the new heaven and the new earth. It changed my while perspective of what is to come and I now have joy thinking about it. I challenge you to read for yourself and not just depend on what you are told. I am grateful for this community and how I get inspired to grow spiritually.
These passages in Revelation remind me that Eternity is a place not a time. Time as we know it ends.
DESTINY GILBERT – welcome to the family! Just as with any new relationship, trust takes time to build. Unlike other relationships though, Jesus remains faithful to do all He has promised, even when we do not understand the process.
TARA B – praying for your aunt and her family during her transition to eternity. Praying also that your separation brings a chance for restoration of your marriage.
MEAGAN WARLICK – so heartbreaking about your friend. Praying for her baby and husband
FREDRIKA WORSHAM – sorry about the loss of your fiancé. Praying God’s Spirit comforts you in this study.
KATIE PENFIELD – praying for you and yor son. May a new kidney be matched soon
STEPHANIE BERLING – agreeing with you in prayer for your the salvation of your husband’s grandparents
RACHEL DALLIS – maybe your husband could do He Reads Truth – then you both could be studying the same thing
BETHANY MORA – yes, a verse of the week is given on Sundays
LINDA K – rejoicing about Karen’s successful surgery
Good morning lovely ladies! Even though The Revelation has always proven to be a difficult book, I have always enjoyed it. I smile so much with the description of the New Heaven and the New Earth, with God’s kingdom coming down from Heaven and Him dwelling among us, reigning with those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. It’s a constant reminder that this world WILL pass away and everything, good and bad, is temporary. It further serves as a reminder that I can’t be so concerned with the things of this life and must live with eternity at the forefront of my mind. God bless you guys ❤️
This is a great reminder that everything is created for God and His glory. This is our future, and as Christians, we get to be a part of this and truly have hope in our Savior and His reign!
Arionna G- taken from The Enduring Word commentary….
4. (12-13) Jesus declares: I am coming quickly.
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.”
a. And behold, I am coming quickly: We can never miss the note of urgency and warning in all what Jesus tells us about His coming. His message is always be ready!
(Matthew 24:44)
b. My reward is with Me: If Jesus will give to everyone according to his work, does that mean we are saved by our works? No, but it does show that living faith will have works with it (James 2:20, Titus 3:8).
i. “It is the quality of a man’s life which provides the ultimate indication of what he really believes.” (Mounce)
Amen! If our hearts are truly with Jesus then our actions will reflect that. Not because it will save us, but because we are trying to live like Him!
Amen
In Revelation 22:12, it says that “my reward is with me to repay each person according to his work”. I’m having trouble understanding this in the context of the gospel and Romans where we are taught that we receive grace through faith and not by works. Can someone please let me know your thoughts?
Arionna, I agree this can be difficult to understand. I found this explanation of Revelation 22:12 on BibleRef.com and it helped me see we are repaid as faithful belibeea