13 But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.

— 2 Peter 3:13

17 For behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.

18 But be glad and rejoice forever in what I create; for I will create Jerusalem to be a joy and its people to be a delight.

19 I will rejoice in Jerusalem and take delight in My people. The sounds of weeping and crying will no longer be heard in her.

— Isaiah 65:17-19

Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from that time and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of Hosts will accomplish this.

— Isaiah 9:7

7 May the righteous flourish in his days and prosperity abound until the moon is no more.

11 May all kings bow down to him and all nations serve him.

— Psalm 72:7, 11

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and love from Christ to you.

What will we anticipate as we imagine a world made new? This world’s trials and troubles remind us that we were made for something better. We long to be done with death, pain, and tears. For the believer, this life’s struggles will give way to a glorious future where God rules without rival. This increases our anticipation of eternal life.

God will end evil’s cruel reign and judge His enemies. He will take His own people to live with Him forever. This glorious certainty offers believers more than a distant and vague hopefulness. The truth about God’s ultimate victory over sin and death changes the way His people should live. This truth greatly changes the way we approach our greatest challenges or joys. Amen!