2 Peter 3:13
“But in keeping with God’s promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.”
When Adam and Eve disobeyed in the Garden, sin entered the world. With it came heartache, frustration, selfishness and death. As we watch the news we see the horrible consequences. We experience it in our own lives and families.
We may be christians who are walking with Christ. Yet, we feel the effects of sin on us. Romans 8:23 says, “Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.”
People struggle with all sorts of psychological and emotional problems. This is part of the groaning that was mentioned. We know things aren’t right and we know that God is working in us. We finally know that when we are with Him in heaven or the kingdom, all of the effects of sin will be done away with.
Nature also feels the consequences of the fall. Romans 8:22 says “We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time.” Fear dominates. The order of things had to be altered for survival. Genesis 9:2,3 speaks of God putting the fear of man in the animals, as he allows them to became a food source. That wasn’t the original design.
However, there will come a time when “righteousness dwells”. When Jesus comes back, He will establish a kingdom reign for a 1,000 years. Governments throughout time have ruled over people. Most were oppressive and unfair, while those that understood mans tendency to oppress were more just. However, Jesus will show us how it’s done for this period of time.
At the end of this thousand year reign will come the new heaven and new earth referred to in today’s passage.
Lord, thanks for Your influence in our lives. We look forward to a time when Your righteousness will rule over all.