What Is Heaven?

“Heaven”—a word that fills the pages of history. It’s a word used by poets and songwriters, politicians and pagans. In some contexts, Heaven simply means the sky above or a wonderful experience. It symbolizes ideas with important meaning, even for atheists.

For some, Heaven is a code word for their vision of God or concepts like fate or the future. George Washington, for example, issued an order in September 1776, declaring that the country could be saved only with “the blessing of Heaven.” Benjamin Franklin told the American Constitutional Convention in June 1787 to implore “the assistance of Heaven.”

Heaven is central to many civilizations. When he arrived in China in the 13th century, Marco Polo was impressed by “the City of Heaven,” which he called the greatest city in the world.

But Believers should remember that Heaven is not an idea or concept. It’s real, and it’s our eternal destination. The Bible tells us that Heaven is God’s “holy dwelling place” (Deuteronomy 26:15), where He is enthroned and worshiped, where we will spend eternity with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:17). There, Jesus has prepared a place for us (John 14:1). There, we should store our treasure (Matthew 6:20).There, we’ll receive our rewards (Matthew 5:12). In fact, Heaven is where we have our real citizenship (Philippians 3:20).

Some, like John, actually have seen glimpses of Heaven. But no matter what we know, the Bible makes clear that nothing can prepare us for the glories of Heaven. Paul said that God has prepared something so wonderful, it’s beyond our comprehension!

Today, don’t allow the problems of this life to dominate your mind and heart. Think about Heaven and all that God has prepared for you! Thank Him! Praise Him! Trust Him!