LOOKING FORWARD: Fix Your Eyes on the Eternal
Opening Verse:
“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:18
1. The Christian’s Vision (2 Minutes)
Spurgeon directs our gaze forward in our Christian journey. His encouragement is simple: look beyond the trials of the present to the eternal crown and goal that await us.
- Key Point: Spurgeon reminds us that forward lies the crown and onward is the goal. Faith calls us to keep our eyes on the eternal promises of God.
Discussion Question: Why is it important for Christians to look forward rather than backward?
- Possible Responses: Looking backward can lead to regret or distraction, while looking forward builds hope and trust in God’s promises.
Supporting Scripture: Philippians 3:13-14
“Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
2. The Future Promise (2 Minutes)
Spurgeon outlines vivid, hope-filled realities awaiting believers:
- Sin will be cast out, the body of sin destroyed, and the soul made perfect.
- Death’s river will be crossed, and we will enter the celestial city.
- We will be crowned, embraced, and glorified with Christ, sharing His throne.
Reflection Question: How do these promises impact the way you live and view your struggles today?
Supporting Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3-4
“…a living hope… an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.”
3. Personal Application (2 Minutes)
Spurgeon beautifully reminds us:
“Death is but a narrow stream, and you shall soon have crossed it. Time—how short! Eternity—how long!”
Discussion Questions:
- What does Spurgeon mean by “Death is but a narrow stream”?
- Death is temporary and brief for the believer. It is not the end but a crossing to eternal life with Christ.
- How can focusing on future glory help with present struggles?
- Focusing on eternity gives perspective, reminding us that our current trials are temporary and that eternal joy far outweighs them.
Supporting Scripture: Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
4. Closing Reflection and Prayer (1 Minute)
Reflection: Spurgeon’s devotional closes with a poem that beautifully reminds us of heaven’s sustaining power:
“Faith’s bright vision shall sustain me / Till life’s pilgrimage is past.”
- Heaven is our ultimate refuge from life’s storms. Focusing on God’s promises gives strength, peace, and hope for the journey.
- Challenge: This week, when trials arise, pause and remind yourself: “The road is short, and I shall soon be home.”
Prayer Focus:
Thank God for:
- The hope of future glory.
- Victory over sin and death.
- The promise of eternal life.
Ask for:
- Faith to look forward with hope.
- Strength to persevere in today’s struggles.
- Joy as we journey toward our heavenly home.
Optional Reflection (For Personal Study)
Explore the imagery of “Eshcol’s clusters” in Numbers 13:23-27. How does tasting the fruits of the Promised Land serve as a reminder of the joys of heaven that await us? How can we “taste” heaven’s joys even now?
Takeaway Thought:
Fix your eyes on what is unseen—on Christ, heaven, and eternity. Let the joy of what lies ahead strengthen your faith today.