What is Heaven Like?

Q: What is Heaven like? I know Jesus came to make it possible for us to go there, and I’m thankful for that, but I’m not sure what difference it makes to us. — Mrs. E.E.

A: The Bible admittedly doesn’t answer all our questions about Heaven — because Heaven is far more glorious than our limited minds can fully grasp! But the Bible repeatedly assures us that Heaven is real, and because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we can know our sins are forgiven and we will go there some day. Jesus said, “I am going there to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2).

What difference should Heaven make to us right now? For one thing, Heaven gives us hope — hope for today and hope for the future. No matter what we’re facing, we know it is only temporary, and ahead of us is Heaven. The Bible says, “Therefore we do not lose heart. … For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:16-17).

Heaven also makes a difference because we can be in touch with it today. Few people have ever had the honor of speaking with a king — but as believers in Christ, we don’t have to wait until we die to have an audience with the King of kings, Jesus Christ. By His Spirit He lives within us, and through prayer and the Bible we have access to Him now.

Sickness and sorrows may come our way — but when we keep our eyes focused on Christ and on Heaven, joy and peace can be ours. Therefore, the Bible says, “set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:1-2).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.