ByIn a world filled with uncertainty and fleeting treasures, God has provided believers with a remarkable promise of an inheritance beyond compare. Through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, we have been begotten again to a living hope (1 Peter 1:3). And this new hope comes with a heavenly inheritance – a glorious and eternal reward that awaits all those who place their trust in the Lord.
Before coming to know Christ, we were without hope, alienated from God and separated from His abundant blessings (Ephesians 2:12). However, through His redemptive work, we have been brought into a new reality, a reality characterized by a living hope and the assurance of a heavenly inheritance. This inheritance is not limited to a select few; it is made available to every Christian who puts their faith in Jesus Christ our Lord. Yet, while the inheritance is freely given, the fullness of its enjoyment is reserved for those who diligently serve God very well. The Bible encourages us to consider our heavenly inheritance and its characteristics as we strive to live in a manner worthy of this priceless gift (Hebrews 12:28, Matthew 19:29).
Here are four characteristics of our heavenly inheritance stored for us as God’s children. These qualities are all enlisted in 1 Peter 1:4 NJKV (boldface mine), which says,
[4] “to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,”
1. Incorruptible
Our divine inheritance is indestructible, impervious to deterioration and destruction. Unlike physical assets, which rust and perish, our inheritance in the Lord is eternal and unharmed. It is founded in the nature of God, who is eternal and unchanging. Therefore, the heavenly inheritance for the child of God is incorruptible, just as God is.
2. Undefiled
Also, in our heavenly inheritance, there exists no space for sin, impurity, or defilement. It is free of the corruption that afflicts our planet Earth. And so, while our earthly experiences are frequently characterised by evil and unrighteousness, our inheritance offers a home of complete holiness, purity, and righteousness. We will be forever free from seeing evil things.
Think about a clear glass of water. Even though it may look clean and refreshing, you might notice tiny particles or impurities floating on it if you examine it closely. These impurities don’t discolour the overall appearance of the water, but they remind us that even something as simple as water can have imperfections.
With this scenario in mind, consider your heavenly inheritance. It is far more extraordinary than a glass of water. There are no impurities, no particles, and nothing that could damage its perfect clarity.
Unlike the water with its imperfections, our heavenly inheritance is beyond any earthly comparison. It is a realm of absolute purity and lawlessness; perfectly pure and undamaged. It is a gift from God that promises us a perfect and pure existence in His presence.
3. Cannot Fade
Unlike the perishable nature of earthly possessions and achievements, our heavenly inheritance remains steadfast and unchanging. It is not subject to the fluctuations of time or circumstances. Earthly treasures may fade, lose their lustre, or diminish in value. But our inheritance in the Lord endures forever.
Think of currencies that fluctuate in value due to various factors. Our heavenly inheritance, however, transcends such volatility. Its worth is not tied to earthly economies or fleeting trends. In the presence of God, where our inheritance resides, there is no room for depreciation or devaluation. It remains eternally valuable, surpassing anything this world has to offer.
4. Reserved in Heaven for You
Our heavenly inheritance is not only promised but also reserved for each believer. It is a personal and intimate gift from our loving Heavenly Father. We don’t need to fight to keep it or earn it through our own efforts, but it doesn’t mean we have to be lazy without putting in much effort to serve God in our Christian journey.
Imagine entering a banquet where a seat has been specifically reserved for you. You don’t have to struggle with anyone for that seat, even if you arrive late. Right? Our heavenly inheritance has that quality, even though it’s much more than a mere seat. It is an everlasting possession in the presence of God. And it is reserved with love and care, set apart for us as individuals who have embraced the salvation found in Jesus Christ.
As believers, we are called to fix our hearts and minds on the promise of our heavenly inheritance. Our responsibility is to faithfully serve God and align our lives according to His purpose.
As we faithfully serve God and live in anticipation of the reception of this inheritance, let us be filled with gratitude and hope, knowing that we have an eternal and unchanging reward waiting for us in the Lord. May our lives reflect the joy, hope, and anticipation of the eternal blessings that await us as recipients of this heavenly inheritance.
