By: Jared Boser

The Bible often describes life as fleeting and temporary, using metaphors like a mist, a fast runner, a breath and a wisp of smoke. Job 8:9 reminds us of the brevity of life, and King David prayed for God to help him see life from a divine perspective (Psalm 39:4). We are described as aliens, pilgrims, foreigners, strangers and visitors in this world (Psalm 119:19; 1 Peter 1:17; 1 Peter 2:11). This perspective helps us remember that our time on earth is short and that we are just passing through. The Devil, however, wants us to believe that this world is our permanent home.

Your identity is in eternity, and your homeland is Heaven. God calls on His children to think differently about life compared to unbelievers (Philippians 3:18–20). He warns against living for the here and the now or adopting worldly values, priorities and lifestyles (James 4:4). Instead, we are to be role models and ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary (2 Corinthians 4:18). As C.S. Lewis aptly put it, “All that is not eternal is eternally useless.”

We were created for something much better. The fact that earth is not our ultimate home explains why followers of Christ often experience difficulty, sorrow, and rejection. We are not completely happy here because we were made for more (John 16:33; John 16:20; John 15:18–19). The Bible’s hall of fame of faith, including Noah, Abraham, Jacob and Moses, shows that it takes faith to live as a foreigner in this world, not extreme riches and power (Hebrews 11:13, 16). We need to desire something better, something eternal.

An often-repeated story illustrates this point well. A retiring missionary or preacher returns to America on the same boat as the president of the United States. While the president is welcomed with cheering crowds, a military band, a red carpet, banners and media coverage, the preacher slips off the ship unnoticed. Feeling self-pity and resentment, he complains to God, who gently reminds him, “But my child, you’re not home yet.” Keeping this thought in our hearts and minds can help us see life as less trivial and overwhelming.

If you are not a Christian, remember that this life is almost over; it is a vapor. God has a home prepared for you if you simply obey His commands. We are not promised tomorrow, and our eternal home is prepared. Let’s get ready to go home!

Author: Jared Boser