But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. (2 Pet. 3:13)
Not everyone who makes a promise keeps it. We can grow accustomed to living in a world of broken promises. We learn to distrust each other. We are skeptical when promises are made. We don’t count on anyone doing what they say. The world of deceit and distrust is not a pleasant place in which to live.
God’s world is different. He operates out of truthfulness and faithfulness. What he promises, he will do. His word is sure. You can count on him.
The truthfulness and faithfulness of God changes our outlook and our confidence in life. We look forward with optimistic expectation because God has promised. We step out to follow the call of Christ and take risks because we can count on God to fulfill his word.
God said he will create a new heaven and a new earth. His new creation will be a place where righteousness will abide. Everything wrong will be taken away, and everything right will find a home there. Sounds pretty good—like a place I want to count on.
Abraham left everything he knew for a place he did not know, because God asked him to and promised to take care of him (see Heb. 11:8). Sounds risky, but Abraham decided to take God at his word—and God kept his word. Sounds like a good way to live.
Look forward with confidence and trust in the faithfulness of God.
Dr. Ken Heer was an ordained minister with The Wesleyan Church, prior to his death in 2016. He served as a pastor, educator, and church leader for more than forty years, helping people grow in Christ.
© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
