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“For many, as I have often told you and now tell you even in tears, conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction. Their God is their stomach; their glory is in their “shame.” Their minds are occupied with earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 3:18-20
“Wait a little while, my soul, await the promise of God, and you will have the fullness of all that is good in heaven. If you yearn inordinately for the good things of this life, you will lose those which are heavenly and eternal. Use temporal things properly, but always desire what is eternal. Temporal things can never fully satisfy you, for you were not created to enjoy them alone . . . for your blessedness and happiness lie only in God, who has made all things from nothing.”— Thomas a’ Kempis, p. 133-34
“This is the difference between a journey on earth, and that which leads to Heaven. For in the former, not only may we stop without fear of going backward, but rest is necessary that we may sustain our strength to the journey’s end; however, in the latter journey which leads to perfection, our growth in strength is proportionate to our advance, inasmuch as the inferior appetites which throw all possible obstacles in our path to Heaven, grow gradually weaker while our good inclinations acquire new strength. Thus as we advance in piety, our early difficulties fade into the background, and a certain delight, with which God sweetens the bitterness of this life, increases in our souls. Going cheerfully on from virtue to virtue, we finally reach the summit of the mountain.” — Dom Lorenzo Scupoli, pp. 117-18
“You must accept your cross; if you bear it courageously it will carry you to Heaven.”
— St. John Vianney
“I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago – whether in the body … or out of the body I do not know … [who] heard inexpressible words, which a man is not permitted to speak.” – 2 Corinthians 12:2-4 NASB
Paul described how an unnamed man (whom many believe was Paul himself) was “caught up to the third heaven” (v. 2). This must have been amazing!
Paul’s account is filled with mystery. He did not know how this had happened, or if the man was in or out of his body. He could not describe what Heaven was like. What he saw was “inexpressible” and could not be repeated.
Certainly Paul realized that Heaven is a place of the extraordinary, the indescribable, and the overwhelming. Pondering this experience, he realized how often people boast about themselves or their abilities. But after seeing Heaven, he became keenly aware of his own limitations versus God’s greatness.
Paul realized that no one could boast about anything except our own weaknesses. Everything we have is a gift from God. We owe everything to Him.
Let this glimpse of Heaven encourage you! Remember, Jesus said He was going to “prepare a place for you.” He “will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:1-3).
If Jesus is your Lord, you will spend eternity with Him. You will see that indescribable place and hear those inexpressible words.
You can prepare for that glorious day right now. Humble yourself before God. Seek Him. Worship Him. Don’t boast in yourself, but rather dedicate your life to serving Him.
Father, thank You that I will spend eternity with You! I humble myself before You. Use me for Your kingdom and glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
2 Corinthians 12
