GOD THE REDEEMER

READ: Revelation 21

“And he who is seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’”—Revelation 21:5

From the beginning of time, God’s heart has always been set on redemption. We see this thread woven throughout the entirety of the Bible, finding its completion when He says, “It is done” (Revelation 21:6 ESV)!

I love that in this verse, it is He who is seated on the throne who is speaking. God says, “I am making all things new” (Revelation 21:5 ESV). Revelation 21 tells us that these words are trustworthy and true because He who is on the throne is accomplishing it.

For us now, it can be difficult to look forward to a new heaven and a new earth. Our hearts and minds are often caught up in the present joys and trials of life. But Revelation 21:4 (ESV) says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” The Word tells us plainly that the things of this world will not last forever. What does it look like to live in light of this truth? What does it look like for us to consider God’s plan to redeem all things to Himself?

Let us begin by asking God to teach us. We cannot fathom eternity apart from His help. He tells us to “set [our] minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2 NIV). We must choose to lift our gaze to the things that are unseen and eternal. This is not to say that there is no value in the present things, but this truth serves to remind us that the most valuable things are eternal. The Word tells us to lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19–21).

Although we can look ahead to eternal redemption, that doesn’t mean we won’t get to experience God as the Redeemer here and now. No matter who you are, you’ll face trials, suffering, and pain of some kind in this life. But take heart, as Psalm 27:13 (ESV) says, “I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!” We can have hope in this life that God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Even the troubles of today find their place in God’s grand story of redemption.

Jesus is the best example we have of this. God sent Jesus to save us from eternal judgment, but also to give us abundant life (John 10:10). God’s heart for us is to live according to His will, because the plans He has for us are good (Jeremiah 29:11)! Do you believe He has a plan to redeem brokenness and pain in your life here on earth? If not, why?

I encourage you to pray and ask God to reveal His heart for you and your life. Jesus died in your place because your life in Christ is of value to God! God our Redeemer is doing a new thing (Isaiah 43:19), and He will carry it on to completion (Philippians 1:6).