Heaven—A Place Worth Waiting For

Introduction.  (Hebrews 11:8-10).  Just as Abraham considered himself a pilgrim and stranger awaiting a heavenly city, so must we, looking unto the hope of heaven.

I.  Many Things About Faith Demand Waiting.  We Wait for…

A.  Vindication (Proverbs 20:22; Zephaniah 3:8).

B.  Justice (Psalm 59:9).

C.  Mercy (Galatians 5:5; Luke 2:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10).

D.  Glory (Lamentations 3:25,26; Micah 7:7).

E.  Relief from Suffering (Job 14:14).  “Change” Heb.  chaliyphah  “1) a change, change (of garments), replacement,   a) change (of raiment), b) relays, c) relief (from death), d) changing, varying (course of life)”  (Gesenius).  Romans 8:19, 23 & 25

II.  The Christian Must…

A. Endure Temptation, Waiting on the Lord to Give Us What We Need (Psalm 104:27). 

B. Endure Persecution, Waiting for the Lord to Avenge Our Mistreatment (Psalm 33:20). 

C. Continue in Service, Waiting for the Coming of the Lord (Genesis 49:18; Luke 12:36; Philippians 3:20; Hebrews 9:28).  “Eagerly wait”  in Ro 8:19;8:23; 8:25; 1Co 1:7; Ga 5:5; Php 3:20;Heb 9:28 is the Greek apekdechomai “1) assiduously and patiently waiting for.”

D. Maintin Confidence in God’s Word, Waiting for the Lord to Show His Steadfastness (Psalm 37:34; Psalm 106:13; Psalm 130:5; Hosea 12:6).

III.  Those Who Wait For the Lord…

A.  Will Inherit the Earth (Psalm 37:9).

B.  Will Renew their Strength (Isaiah 40:31).

C.  Will Not be Ashamed (Isaiah 49:23).

D.  Be Stengthened in Heart (Psalm 27:14).