For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, 3 because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4 For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we live by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
11 Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience.
Question 1
Paul says that Christians ‘longed to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling’ (v 2). Are you longing for heaven? What can help you think about heaven more often?
Question 2
In verses 6-11, Paul emphasises the fact that Christians should not feel at home in this world. Which things are you too focused on in this world rather than on God?
Question 3
We are reminded by Paul that we must all face the judgment of Christ at the end of our life (v 10). How does this affect the way you live today?
Pray:
Pray that God will raise your eyes to heavenly realities that last forever. Thank Him for giving eternal life to you.
