"Heaven
The subject of heaven is often avoided, mainly because of the tremendous confusion and differing conceptions that so many people raise. Some believers see it as kind of strumming on a harp, pie in the sky, 'won't this be fun?' kind of place. Unbelievers often use it as a crutch of comfort in the face of tragedy, difficulty, or death.
The Bible is clear we're not dealing with a fantasy or a dream, but a real place (John 14:1-3). Heaven is a literal place God has built and prepared for those who received Him by faith (Hebrews 11:10,16). This new Jerusalem will be lit by the Glory of God. It will be the dwelling place of God's redeemed for ever and ever. Heaven has certain unchangeable feature:
1. Unchangeable in its access - I John 3:1-2
Entrance into heaven is based on commited relationship with Jesus, the Lamb. John 1:29 leaves no doubt as to who the Lamb is: Jesus, who died for our sins (Revelation 5:8-13).
2. Unchangeable in its characteristics - Revelation 21:2-5, 22:1-5.
In heaven there will be no sickness or affliction, no tears, no death, and no night. And just think... in heaven we'll never sin, never have any guilt. We'll never feel bad. We'll never have to fix anything, repair anything, replace anything, or adjust anything. Everything will be perfect there. We'll never have to deal with Satan again. We'll never be mad, sad, lonely, or afraid. We'll never want or need anything because we'll have everything we could ever need. As the old song goes, 'Heaven is a wonderful place, filled with glory and grace...'
3. Unchangeable in its experience - Revelation 22:4
'And they shall see His face' speaks of our exposure to and communion with Jesus, the Lord of our Salvation. The presence of the Lord is the one thing that will make heaven so glorious. We know that John was having a tough time putting into words the wonder, splendor, and magnitude of what he saw. With a city whose dimensions are 1500 miles square, it's an awesome place. there are physical dimensions, but I'm thrilled at the limitless supply of God's overwhelming mercy, love, and grace. The majesty, beauty, and eternal qualities of it all move me.
I'm glad he's prepared a home for us that's available and won't be eroded by economic declines or governmental decisions. There are no shortages in Heaven. There's more than enough. Heaven is built on something far more stable... its foundations are the Word of God.
Hoping for hot fudge,
Ron Mehl"