Do Not Remain Banished

2 Samuel 14:14
“Like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be recovered, so we must die. But that is not what God desires; rather, he devises ways so that a banished person does not remain banished from him.”

2 Peter 3:9
“…he (God) is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

We are a spirit (our true essence); we possess a soul (mind, will, emotions); and, we live in a physical body. Our spirit will live forever somewhere, but our body is going to die. There is no way around it.

If we went into outer space, we would have to have a “space suit”, else we could not maneuver or exist. Similarly, our body is our “earth suit” for our spirit to be able to maneuver and live in this three dimensional temporary world. One day we will lay it aside and return to the spirit world. Our decision whether or not to receive Jesus, and love God, on this earth determines where we will live for all of eternity.

God gives everyone numerous opportunities to choose His Son and pursue an intimate relationship with the Father. He gives us free will, so He will not force us to choose Heaven. The more we understand and receive the unconditional love of the Father, we will want to pursue more intimacy with Him.

Jesus came to give us abundant life, starting right now, and extending throughout all of eternity. Sin separates us from God, and we are banished from His Presence unless we come through Jesus.

Pray diligently for those who are still banished.

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Talk to someone today who is still banished, and let them know how much God loves them.

Dive Deeper: Study 2 Samuel 14; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Zechariah 12:1; Acts 7:59.