Resources/Articles
Making The Journey To Heaven: Part 1
Many of those who read this desire to be in heaven for eternity. They have made a choice that the narrow way leads to life, and life is what they want. Steadfastness of faith will get us to heaven. We must be aware of the dangers which slowly creep upon us (1 Peter 5:8). Consider some guidelines for making our journey to heaven.
Always obey the truth. John 8:32 says, “the truth shall set you free.” Truth should be obeyed because it is constant, genuine, abiding, plain, and easily understood (Ephesians 3:3-5; 5:17). The truth is not in man (Proverbs 14:12; Jeremiah 10:23). Truth is in God (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18). Since truth is heaven-sent, God graciously provides a guide pointing the way to where He lives. It is important to note the truth pointing the way to heaven is the same truth by which we will be judged (John 12:48).
Know and do the right thing. The moral fiber of a home, society, and church comes apart at the seams because people fail to practice the right thing. Right is not dictated by majority, culture, or an exalted religious leader. Right is determined by a standard of truth. We are personally affected by doing the wrong thing by going against the standard, but in contrast, we are blessed by doing what is honest and virtuous. Which conscience do you want to live with - guilty or pure?
Always act as becometh righteousness. 1 Peter 4:16 says, “if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this name.” Christians need to accept being one and always stand for right, regardless of the consequences. Christians need to act in truth and not make void the righteousness in Christ (Matthew 5:13,14). This world puts so many things in front of us, making it tough to live right. Make sure you know where you stand and all to stand (Ephesians 6:13).
Correct mistakes as soon as you realize your mistakes. Perfection is something we all wish we had. As Christians, we fail at times. God made provisions to correct those wrongs and instructs us to do so (Acts 8:22). King David sinned grievously, but was quick to repent (Psalm 51). The mark of character is in the person who says, “I have sinned.” To live day after day with sin and make no effort to correct it is dangerous. We cannot hide it. Time does not remove it. A smiling face may fool some, but it will not fool God. Our mistakes will haunt us and ruin us. If we refuse to correct our wrongs, we will meet them face to face in the judgment. What a sad day that will be.
