Our concept of heaven is a "city of gold" with "walls of jasper" derived from John's figurative language used in, Rev. 21:18. Perhaps one reason we picture heaven in. this manner is that the finite mind can only grasp the things which are familiar. Whatever the reason, our ideas of that eternal city leaves us in awe and stirs within our hearts a burning desire to live forever in that land which is fairer than day. This hope of heaven is the anchor for the soul. It encourages sinners to turn from their wicked ways and causes Christians to set their affections on things above (Col. 3:2).

1 am glad to be a child of God! Nothing in the world is better than being a Christian because we have the promise of eternal life in heaven, and this promise is from God who cannot lie (Tit. 1:2). That promise is enough to satisfy the most hungry and thirsty soul.

But Christians have a bonus. We are promised an abundance of rich blessings right here on earth now! Oh, I realize they do not fully compare with the glories of heaven, where all will be perfect. However, that does not minimize the little bit of heaven we can experience every day.

For one thing, we Christians are at peace with God. The enmity that once kept us from Him was removed at the cross (Eph. 2:11-17). This peace is described as that which "passeth all understanding" (Phil. 4:7). His peace reigns within our hearts as we gladly serve in the kingdom, and that is a little bit of heaven.

We also have the privilege of prayer. We can approach the throne of grace with boldness (Heb. 4:16), being assured that if we ask anything in His name, according to His will, it will be granted (1 Jn. 5:14-15). Pity poor sinners separated from God by their sins who cannot petition Him as "Our Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 6:9) on behalf of sick loved ones, or to help in times of tribulation. The blessing of prayer is, indeed a little bit of heaven.

In addition, we have the joy of fellowshipping with the Lord, for Jesus promised to be with us when we gather together in His name (Matt. 18:20). Because we are members of one great family, there is a closeness that only Christians can know. We do not ever need to feel alone. This intimate fellowship in worship and service is a foretaste of that which is to come is a little bit of heaven.

Then we also have the Bible, God's inerrant Word. Its exhaustless storehouse of truth guides our feeble steps toward that eternal city. Its power helps to conquer the foe. Its freshness lifts our tired spirits as we study and meditate each new day. Yes, it meets our every spiritual need because it is a little bit of heaven.

We have the opportunity of dedicated service. We do not have to waste our lives upon ourselves. We can serve God gladly and, according to opportunity and ability, serve our fellow roan. With every act of. mercy, every deed of kindness, God gives His blessing. Truly, as the Lord said, "It is more blessed to ;give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). These daily blessings received from: God are a little bit of heaven.

Finally, we have the. prospect of the return of Christ (Acts 1:9-11). We know our existence does not end at the grave because the Lord's resurrection gives us unwavering faith in future life. Heaven is just ahead! Knowing that we can be with the Lord Jesus in eternal glory makes the cares of this life easier to bear. We know that our labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Cor. 15:58). That is a little bit of heaven.

Add these things up and I believe you will agree that God's children have a little bit of heaven right here on earth now!

Truth Magazine XXIII: 17, p. 274
April 26, 1979