LIVING IN LIGHT OF ETERNITY
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Colossians 3:1-4
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”
Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Matthew 6:19-21, 1 John 2:15-17, Philippians 3:20-21, Revelation 21:1-4
INTRODUCTION:
As believers in Christ, we are called to live with eternity in view. The world constantly pulls our attention to the temporary — possessions, achievements, pleasures, and pains. But the Bible reminds us that our true citizenship is in heaven and our focus should be on things above. Living in the light of eternity changes how we make decisions, handle trials, and pursue purpose. It’s a call to live every day as if Christ could return at any moment.
1. ETERNAL FOCUS SHIFTS EARTHLY PRIORITIES
A heavenly mindset redirects what you value most.
a) The Things of This World Are Temporary
Earthly gains fade away, but heavenly treasures last forever (1 John 2:17).
b) Christ Must Be the Centre of Our Pursuits
Seeking Him is greater than seeking the world (Matthew 6:33).
c) Living for Eternity Produces Spiritual Discipline
We live intentionally and purposefully (Ephesians 5:15-17).
d) Our Desires Must Align with God’s Kingdom
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be (Matthew 6:21).
Biblical Example – Moses chose to suffer affliction with God’s people rather than enjoy temporary pleasures in Egypt (Hebrews 11:24-26).
2. THE REALITY OF HEAVEN AND HELL SHOULD INFLUENCE OUR LIVING
What we believe about eternity shapes how we live today.
a) Heaven Is a Prepared Place for Prepared People
We must live ready to meet the Lord (John 14:2-3).
b) Hell Is Real and Eternal
A life without Christ ends in separation from God (Revelation 20:15).
c) Grace Is the Open Door to Eternity with Christ
Salvation is the beginning of eternal life (Ephesians 2:8-9).
d) Our Daily Living Should Reflect Eternal Choices
We must choose the narrow path that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14).
Biblical Example – The rich man and Lazarus showed the eternal consequence of earthly choices (Luke 16:19-31).
3. SUFFERINGS TODAY ARE NOTHING COMPARED TO ETERNAL GLORY
Temporary pain cannot compare to permanent reward.
a) Trials Are Momentary and Working for Our Good
God is using them to prepare us for glory (2 Corinthians 4:17).
b) We Must Not Lose Heart Amid Suffering
The eternal reward outweighs the present burden (Romans 8:18).
c) Persecution for Christ Leads to Crown of Life
Enduring faithfully brings eternal honour (James 1:12).
d) Faith in Eternity Strengthens Endurance
We press on knowing a crown awaits (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
Biblical Example – Paul suffered greatly yet remained focused on the eternal reward (2 Corinthians 11:23-27; Philippians 3:14).
4. WE MUST LIVE AS CITIZENS OF HEAVEN
Your identity in Christ determines your conduct on earth.
a) Our True Home Is Not Earth, But Heaven
We are pilgrims and strangers in this world (Hebrews 11:13).
b) Heavenly Citizens Reflect Christ's Character
We must walk in righteousness, love, and holiness (Philippians 1:27).
c) Earthly Things Must Not Control Us
We must not be entangled with the affairs of this world (2 Timothy 2:4).
d) Our Conduct Must Be Worthy of Our Heavenly Calling
Let your lifestyle reflect your eternal hope (Titus 2:11-13).
Biblical Example – Abraham lived in tents, looking for a city whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:10).
5. JESUS IS COMING BACK — BE READY
The return of Christ is both a hope and a warning.
a) His Return Is Certain and Imminent
No man knows the day or hour (Matthew 24:44).
b) Readiness Requires Daily Watchfulness
Keep your lamp burning (Luke 12:35-36).
c) Spiritual Laziness Can Lead to Eternal Regret
Don’t be like the five foolish virgins (Matthew 25:1-13).
d) Living in Readiness Brings Eternal Joy
Blessed are those servants whom the master finds watching (Luke 12:37).
Biblical Example – The early church lived in anticipation of Christ’s return (Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).
CONCLUSION:
To live in light of eternity is to live with purpose, urgency, and hope. It means fixing our eyes on Jesus and prioritising eternal things above earthly distractions. Life on earth is brief, but eternity is forever. Let your decisions, values, and actions reflect that you are heaven-bound. For when Christ, who is your life, shall appear, you shall appear with Him in glory.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to set my mind on things above and not on earthly distractions.
2. Father, give me the grace to live with eternity in view every day.
3. Deliver me from worldly attachments and selfish ambitions.
4. Let my life reflect the hope of eternal glory.
5. Strengthen me to endure every trial knowing my reward is eternal.
6. Help me live as a true citizen of heaven here on earth.
7. Let me not be found sleeping when You return.
8. Ignite in me a passion to win souls for eternity.
9. Give me a fresh hunger for eternal things.
10. Empower me to live a life that pleases You until the end.
