Living for Eternity

Living for Eternity: Why Earth is Not Our Final Home

As Christians, we are called to live with a profound awareness that our time on earth is temporary. We are pilgrims passing through, citizens of a heavenly kingdom, destined for an eternal home in God’s presence. This understanding should radically shape our priorities, values, and daily choices. Instead of being consumed by fleeting worldly pursuits, we are urged to invest in what holds eternal value, living with a heavenly mindset that prepares us for our ultimate destination. This article explores the biblical basis for this eternal perspective and its practical implications for our lives.

The Brevity of Earthly Life: A Fleeting Mist

Scripture frequently reminds us of the transient nature of our earthly existence. James 4:14 poignantly captures this truth:

“What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”

A Temporary Sojourn: This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our lives on earth are incredibly brief in the grand scheme of eternity. Recognizing this brevity should prompt us to evaluate how we spend our time and resources. Are we investing in things that will last, or are we chasing after fleeting pleasures and achievements that will soon fade away? It should cause us to consider if we are making the most of the time that we have on earth.

Eternal Investments: Prioritizing Spiritual Growth

Living with an eternal perspective means consciously choosing to focus on things that have lasting significance. This involves cultivating our relationship with God, serving others, and sharing the Gospel.

Colossians 3:2 provides clear guidance: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

Focusing on the Eternal: This verse encourages a deliberate shift in our mindset. Instead of being preoccupied with worldly concerns, we are to prioritize our spiritual growth and engage in activities that contribute to God’s kingdom. This includes acts of kindness, sharing our faith, and living in obedience to God’s will. These are investments that yield eternal rewards.

Heavenly Citizenship: Living as Sojourners

The Bible emphasizes that our true citizenship is in heaven, and we are merely temporary residents on earth.

Philippians 3:20-21 states: “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.”

A Transformative Hope: This passage not only reminds us of our true home but also offers a glorious promise of future transformation. Knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Christ should motivate us to live lives that reflect His love and righteousness, even amidst the challenges and temptations of this world.

Treasures in Heaven: Beyond Earthly Wealth

Jesus himself warned against the dangers of prioritizing earthly treasures over eternal ones.

Matthew 6:19-20 records His teaching: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

Shifting Our Values: This teaching challenges us to re-evaluate what we value most. Are we striving to accumulate material wealth, or are we investing in our spiritual growth and the well-being of others? True and lasting treasures are found in our relationship with God and in acts of love and service that reflect His character.

The Great Commission: An Eternal Mandate

Our temporary existence on earth provides a unique opportunity to participate in God’s redemptive plan by fulfilling the Great Commission.

Matthew 28:19-20 records Jesus’ command: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”   

Eternal Impact: Sharing the Gospel and making disciples are activities with eternal implications. Each soul won for Christ and every act of discipleship contributes to the expansion of God’s kingdom. Our efforts in evangelism and discipleship reflect our understanding that this world is not our final destination and that our true purpose is to bring others into the knowledge of Christ.

Fixing Our Eyes on the Unseen: Living with Eternal Purpose

Living with an eternal perspective requires a conscious decision to focus on the unseen realities of God’s kingdom rather than the visible, temporary things of this world.

2 Corinthians 4:18 advises: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

A Life of Deeper Meaning: This eternal mindset not only gives our lives deeper meaning and purpose but also ensures that our legacy endures in the light of God’s eternal kingdom. By aligning our lives with God’s eternal purposes, we prepare ourselves for the everlasting life He promises and find true fulfillment that transcends the limitations of our earthly existence.

Preparing for Our Permanent Home

As Christians, we must remember that our earthly journey is temporary. Our permanent home is with God in heaven, and this reality should influence how we live each day. By focusing on eternal values rather than temporal gains, we align ourselves with God’s purpose and prepare for the everlasting life He promises. Let us live with an eternal perspective, striving to glorify God in all that we do, building treasures in heaven where we will dwell forever with Him. This eternal perspective provides a framework for a life of purpose, meaning, and lasting impact, ensuring that our legacy extends far beyond the confines of this fleeting world.