EXHORTATION TO HEAVENWARD CHRISTIANS

The Christian journey to heaven is a sacred pilgrimage that begins with a transformational encounter with Jesus Christ. This transformation is not achieved through human effort but by the sovereign grace of God, making a believer a new creature in Christ. As the Scriptures affirm:

"Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3-5).

Confession of Jesus as Lord and belief in His resurrection secure the gift of salvation (Romans 10:9-10).

The newness of life in Christ signifies a profound spiritual rebirth (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Righteousness Through Christ

Entrance into heaven is not by our righteousness but by Christ's righteousness. Our deeds, no matter how noble, cannot suffice; only His perfect sacrifice opens the way. Living as a heavenward Christian demands an earthly focus on the heavenly realm:

"Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things" (Colossians 3:1-3).

This heavenly perspective shapes our values, pursuits, and character, aligning us with God’s kingdom agenda.

Marks of a Heavenward Christian

A heavenward Christian delights in loving God, embracing righteousness, and living a life wholly devoted to pleasing Him (Luke 1:71-79). Such a life reflects these principles:

Hold Lightly to Earthly Things

We must enjoy God’s blessings but not make idols of them. Integrity and daily communion with God anchor us in His will.

Prioritize God Above All Else

Seek God, not sin. Fear God, not men. Love God, not the world. Believe God, not deceivers. Obey God, not personal appetites. Serve God, not self. Worship God, not comfort.

Abiding in Christ involves daily submission to His Word and Spirit. Obedience is not optional but a reflection of genuine love for God (John 14:21). Through this abiding relationship, we bear witness to Christ by our lives and words, empowered by the Holy Spirit (John 15:8; Acts 1:8; Galatians 5:16-17).

Stay Ready for the Lord’s Return

The call to readiness is urgent and unwavering. Faithfulness to the end, perseverance in trials, and immovability in storms are non-negotiable traits of a heavenward Christian. Jesus reminds us that "He who endures to the end will be saved" (Matthew 24:13).

Living with Eternity in View

Living with eternity in view means daily committing ourselves to God’s purposes, trusting Him in every detail, and walking in the power of His Spirit. It requires a focus on what is eternal, living a life that glorifies God and testifies of His kingdom.

Final Charge

As heavenward Christians, let us hold fast to the promise of God, knowing that His grace is sufficient to sustain us. May we live lives that will ultimately usher us into His glorious presence, free from reproach or questioning.

"Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58).

May the Lord grant us the grace to endure faithfully to the end, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.