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Ecclesiastes 12:14
For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.
What we do today matters for tomorrow. Our actions are not insignificant in the eyes of God. He will finally evaluate every word, thought, and deed. This will take place at two judgments—the Great White Throne judgment (for unbelievers) and the Judgment Seat of Christ (for believers). The final judgments are unavoidable. We will all give an account.
The Great White Throne judgment is the final judgment prior to a verdict of hell. I know that many people don’t want to hear about hell, but the reality of eternal separation from God cannot be ignored simply because it makes us uncomfortable. Revelation 19 and 20 explain that this judgment will take place after the millennial kingdom and after Satan has been thrown into hell—in this passage called “the lake of fire.” According to Revelation 20:12, the book will be opened that contains everyone’s deeds, and judgment will follow (Psalm 28:4; 62:12; Romans 2:6; Rev. 2:23, 18:6, 22:12). This will be the final judgment for rebellion against God.
Believers will be judged, as well, at the Judgment Seat of Christ. This will not be a judgment for our sins. Jesus took our sins in his body on the cross and paid the penalty once and for all. We will never be condemned for them (Romans 8:1). At the Judgment Seat of Christ, the focus will be how faithfully we served Jesus (1 Cor. 9:4-27; 2 Timothy 2:5). James 1:12 gives a great summary of this time that believers will have before Jesus: “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” What we do today matters for tomorrow. Honoring God today reminds us that we will stand before him soon and give an account of our lives. That puts things in the right perspective.
Thank God for loving you so much that he would send Jesus to pay the penalty for your sin.
Ask God to help you comprehend the significance of today’s words, thoughts, and actions.
Ask God to empower you by his Spirit to help you live obediently before him today.
Thank God that he loves you unconditionally and graciously forgives you when you fail.
Today on The Journey:
Greatest Text Message – conTEXT: the Bible’s Context
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Ron- today’s message was so impactful! I will be sharing with my family (my husband is in the infancy of his journey to Christ). Thank you for this daily opportunity to hear His word and grow closer to Him!
God bless!!