The Daily Word of Righteousness

Paradise or Eternal Life?, #18

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. (Revelation 22:12)

Tribulation creates patience in us. Patience is a mark of perfection. The development of patience in us forms a door through which other people can enter the Presence of God. The gates of the new Jerusalem are pearl—that which is created by a patient response to irritations.

Finally the most valuable characteristic anyone can possess—closeness to God. The overcomers forever shall be pillars in the Temple of God and shall "go no more out."

When we consider the above array of destinies (see previous essays) we can understand readily that it is not enough just to "live in a little cabin in the corner of gloryland." There are thrones to be gained—the thrones currently occupied by wicked spirits who are corrupting the creation of God.

There are crowns of life and righteousness; robes of dazzling whiteness that portray the righteous works of the individual.

There is a body to be reclaimed from death and a clothing of that body with Divine glory and fire so it shines as a star forever.

There are opportunities to serve God forever in His living Tabernacle.

There are the joys of bringing forth healing and life for the saved peoples of the earth.

There are qualities of character to be gained.

There is the incomparable fulfillment of hearing the Lord say, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord."

But closeness to the Lord God of Heaven for eternity is a reward that surpasses all others.

No, our goal is not merely admittance to the garden of God. The rewards and treasures available to the victorious saint, the disciple who takes up his cross each day and follows the Master with a perfect heart of obedience and love, are well worth every effort we can possibly make.

Let us not walk in the ranks of those who are trying to see how close they can come to the Lake of Fire without toppling in. Let us seek more abundant life. Let us live so our Lord can joyfully give us the fullness of His Kingdom.

Many that are last in time will be enabled to press into the fullness of salvation, the Fullness of God.

He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. (Revelation 21:7) (from Paradise or Eternal Life?)