Discovery Journal

Joe C. – September 16, 2010

Scripture:

Revelation 21: 1-4 - 1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. 2 And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. 4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”
8 “But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

Observation:

Revelation 21 is a statement of God's promise to return and create a new heaven and new earth for His people…a place so glorious there is no more death, no crying, no pain, no sorrow…FOREVER!! Oh, to be in this "new" earth…my mind cannot even comprehend, but I so look forward to this day. Verse 8 reminds us that there is also a promise of eternal, permanent separation from God for those whose fear causes them to abandon Christ. These are joyous and scary promises from God that cannot be ignored.

Application:

There are so many times in my life when fear overtakes me. I must put all my trust in my God, my Lord, my Savior to give me courage and strength and to always remember that the war is already won and GOD IS VICTORIOUS!!!

Prayer:

My heavenly Father, I thank You for Your promises and I pray that You will give me courage, boldness, and bravery to do what I know is right, no matter what pressures I face. Help me to stand for You, always. Help me to truly be Christ-like and tell the good news of Your TRUTH, to any and all I come in contact with.