Forever With God

Faith in Jesus is a forever engagement with eternity. His dwelling—which is not made with human hands—invites us into intimacy and eternal security. It is reassuring beyond earthly inconsistencies to know: once we place our faith in Jesus we are always with Jesus. We enjoy His goodness and love now and forevermore in heaven.

“Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands” (2 Corinthians 5:1).

But to dwell in the Lord’s house is not a life of ease and self-focus—just the opposite—it is an opportunity to follow the directives and fulfill interests for the Master of the house. We dwell with the Lord, to serve the Lord, for the Lord’s glory. Just as the owner of the home left strict instructions to his managers left behind, so we are to boldly obey Jesus.

Jesus described serving in His Kingdom, “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his property to them” (Matthew 25:14).

There is a reoccurring blessing of goodness and love that follows those who dwell well in the Lord’s presence. Instead of bitterness and resentment nipping at our heels, God’s goodness and love are our righteous rearguard. Bitterness is a poison we drink thinking it will kill another, but when we drink forgiveness it gives life to everyone. Goodness and love are an annuity from Almighty God waiting for us to receive and apply liberally.

“But you, O Sovereign LORD, deal well with me for your name’s sake; out of the goodness of your love, deliver me. “For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me.” (Psalm 109:21-22). He heals us, so we can administer healing on His behalf.

Above all, your Savior and Lord Jesus Christ is in preparations for your eternal dwelling place. No house on earth (ever how grand it may be) can come close to comparing with your righteous residence in heaven. Its architect is Almighty God, its designer is divine and it is engineered for eternity. It is better to be in a shack with Jesus, than a mansion without Him. By faith in Jesus—you are with Jesus—now and forevermore, amen.

Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going” (John 14:1-4).

Do I dwell well in the presence of Jesus? Do I receive and give His goodness and love?

Related Readings: Exodus 29:46; 1 Kings 8:12-49; Psalm 15:1-5; Revelation 21:3

Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God