Philippians 3:20a (NLT)
But we are citizens of heaven….
Philippians is a short letter written by Paul to his friends in Philippi. Paul has been imprisoned for preaching the Good News of Jesus, but his concern is not for himself but to encourage others who might suffer a similar fate. I hope you can take the time to read the book in it’s entirety and feel empowered to continue to spread the gospel.
The simple phrase, “but we are citizens of heaven,” pricked my heart this morning. What does it mean to be a citizen? I imagine all the blessings I received as a citizen of the United States of America. I am covered by the Constitution and the laws of the land. I’m granted freedom of speech, the right to vote, the right to bear arms, freedom to worship, and so much more simply because I am a citizen of the USA. When I travel to other countries, I don’t travel in fear because I have the support of the American government and Armed Forces because I am a citizen. When I return to the USA from travels, I do not worry about crossing the border because I am a citizen. Being a citizen grants me special privileges.
How much more are the privileges of being a citizen of heaven? I am able to come boldly to the throne of grace and receive mercy because I am a citizen. (Hebrews 4:16) I receive the gift of eternal life because I am a citizen. (Romans 6:22, John 3:16) The angels rejoice over me because I am a citizen. (Luke 15:10) What ever I ask the Father, He hears, and He will give it to me because I am a citizen. (John 16:23) The list is endless.
The best part is that becoming a citizen of heaven is free; there’s no test; only one requirement: receive Christ as your Lord and Savior.
Galatians 3:26 (KJV)
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
Will you believe today?
Will you become a citizen?
Titus 3:4-7 (KJV)
But after that the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior; that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Throughout this Christmas season remember Jesus made the way for you to become a citizen.
Only believe.
priddywords.com 