Living In View Of Eternity
By
Susan Klein
“He
has also set eternity in the hearts of men”
Ecclesiastes
3:11a (NIV)
The news today seems to be filled with validations of our
living in the “end times.” Rivers and lakes around the world mysteriously
filling with blood-red waters, cataclysmic natural disasters, decaying morals,
wars and factions…and yet, if you take a look at Scripture, all these things
were happening 2000 years ago as well. Paul, Timothy and Peter were among many
who proclaimed the end times being near. In fact, 400 years before our Lord
Jesus Christ was even born, the prophet Malachi felt the Lord’s coming was
imminent, stating, “Surely the day (of the Lord) is coming” (Malachi 4:1a, NIV).
We read in Scripture that no one knows the exact moment of our
Lord’s return, but that each one of us should be prepared. So, how might we
live in view of eternity without getting caught up in all the signs and wonders
going on around us? Perhaps we should take our cues from some very wise men.
“Let us draw near to
God with a sincere heart…let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess…let us
consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, let us not
give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us
encourage one another - - and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews
10:22-25, NIV).
“…keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the
work of an evangelist” (2
Timothy 4:5, NIV).
“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you
to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and
respect, keeping a clear conscience so that those who speak maliciously against
your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander” (1
Peter 3:15-16, NIV).
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace
and to mutual edification.” “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings
of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor
for his good, to build him up. For even Christ did not please himself” (Romans
14:19; 15:1-2, NIV).
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men (women) of
courage; be strong. Do everything in love” (1
Corinthians 16:13, NIV).
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all
circumstances…do not put out the Spirit’s fire; do not treat prophecies with
contempt. Test everything. Hold onto the good. Avoid every kind of evil” (1
Thessalonians 5:16-22, NIV).
GOING DEEPER:
1.
Are you focusing on the troubles/signs of the moment, or maintaining an eternal
perspective?
2. What are you doing to share the eternal hope you
have with others, especially those who are perishing?
FURTHER READING:
Susan enjoys
teaching Bible studies, writing, and tutoring with the Literacy Council. She
and her husband Mark are part of the leadership for Oakwood's Wednesday Night
Community.
