Morning Journal
I Thessalonians 4:18
“Therefore comfort one another with these words.”
Paul intended the talk about the rapture and heaven to be comforting. This was unexpected. My memories of rapture talks were evangelistic. The speaker focused on unbelievers with the purpose of bringing them to Christ. I was young in my faith and was caught up in fear of being left behind.
While it’s legitimate to share this with unbelievers, Paul originally meant this message to be one of comfort to believers. The Thessalonians were concerned about believing friends and relatives that had passed on. They knew they were redeemed, but thought they would need to wait until the end of time to enjoy the afterlife in its fulness. Paul corrects them by saying they would rise first.
We also know from Jesus’ words to the condemned man on the cross that we will be with the Lord immediately after death (Luke 23:43). These words from Paul and Jesus are meant to bring comfort. We should allow them to do so.
We are to pray for His “Kingdom to come.” We want His rule in our daily lives. We mourn as we see our culture act in opposition to Him. We take comfort in knowing He’s not worried or out of control.
We are frustrated that we still struggle with sin and sadness. Therefore our bodies and spirits yearn for a day when we’ll be rid of all that (Romans 8:23). Just like a compass points north, so we unconsciously long to be with the Lord fully.
We should allow thoughts of heaven to be in our thoughts. Not that we aren’t enjoying our life here, but more about the fulness there. I Corinthians 2:9 says, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” Part of this is referencing how incredible Heaven will be. We should be curious. God would be pleased with our interest. Ask Him for insight.
Lord, thank You for the comfort You provide. May we be comforted by by thoughts of heaven and fulness of life with You.