[The Sun Series] In HeavenSample

No more night–True Safety!

Studies show that when people are going through difficult times (depression, grief, stress, abuse, or any type of trouble that you can think of) nights are the hardest part of the day. When everything gets quiet, and there is no more activity, work, or errands to distract you, it is very hard. Your body relaxes, you are in bed, but your mind becomes an unstoppable force! It is like a fire alarm that just will not stop. You think, and think, and think. Your emotions awake and rest is over. 

For some people, sleep deprivation has to do with the sensation of not feeling safe. All of your fears arise like a sand storm, and you think that you cannot escape its voracity. We wish that we could live in a closed gated city, with high walls and guards 24/7. Millions of dollars are spent on security every year. But we do not feel safe physically, mentally, or emotionally.

The third truth we will focus on today, is the revelation of true safety. “On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there” (Revelation 21:25). The image of the holy city that comes down from heaven (21:10) describes a city that never closes its gates. In the ancient times, cities used to close their gates and have watchmen on the walls to guarantee security. In heaven, the gates will never be shut, for there will be no night there. True safety is guaranteed!

You may be asking yourself, “How is this possible?” In verse 27 the Bible says that “nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful…” God guarantees true security because nothing and nobody that does not belong there will ever enter heaven. Oh, how I long for my true citizenship in heaven! 

You may be saying, “Wow, this is very beautiful, but how do I deal with the difficulties that I am facing right now?” In Romans chapter 8 verse 18 Paul says, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” This is the right perspective to have in the midst of suffering–an eternal perspective. The suffering we endure here on Earth does not compare with the glory that awaits in heaven because “… we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…” (Romans 8:28). Take comfort in God’s promises and hold on to them.

Thought of the Day 

I can lay down my burden and trust that the suffering I may endure here on Earth does not compare to the glory and true safety that awaits in Heaven.