Definition and Overview:
Living in light of eternity refers to the Christian practice of orienting one's life and decisions with an eternal perspective, focusing on the everlasting implications of earthly actions. This concept encourages believers to prioritize spiritual and eternal values over temporal and worldly concerns, aligning their lives with God's eternal purposes.

Biblical Foundation:
The Bible provides numerous passages that emphasize the importance of living with an eternal perspective. In 2 Corinthians 4:18, the Apostle Paul writes, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" . This verse underscores the transient nature of earthly life compared to the permanence of the spiritual realm.

Jesus Himself taught about the significance of eternal priorities in Matthew 6:19-21: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" . Here, Jesus calls His followers to invest in heavenly treasures, which have lasting value.

Practical Implications:
Living in light of eternity affects various aspects of a believer's life, including their values, decisions, and relationships. It encourages Christians to:

1. Prioritize Spiritual Growth: Believers are urged to seek spiritual maturity and a deeper relationship with God. Colossians 3:1-2 advises, "Since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" .

2. Engage in Evangelism and Discipleship: Understanding the eternal destiny of souls motivates Christians to share the Gospel and disciple others. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you" .

3. Exercise Stewardship: Recognizing that earthly resources are temporary, believers are called to be wise stewards of their time, talents, and treasures. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul instructs, "Command those who are rich in this present age not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God... In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age" .

4. Cultivate Eternal Relationships: Christians are encouraged to invest in relationships that have eternal significance, fostering love, forgiveness, and unity within the body of Christ. John 13:34-35 records Jesus' command, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another" .

Challenges and Encouragement:
Living with an eternal perspective can be challenging in a world that often prioritizes immediate gratification and material success. However, believers are encouraged by the promise of eternal life and the hope of future glory. Romans 8:18 offers reassurance: "I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us" .

The call to live in light of eternity is a reminder of the believer's ultimate citizenship in heaven, as stated in Philippians 3:20-21: "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to subject all things to Himself, will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body" . This eternal perspective provides hope and purpose, guiding Christians to live lives that reflect their heavenly calling.