Living with an eternal perspective involves viewing life through the lens of eternity, prioritizing spiritual and eternal values over temporal and worldly concerns. This mindset is deeply rooted in biblical teachings and encourages believers to focus on their relationship with God, the advancement of His kingdom, and the eternal destiny of their souls and others.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of living with an eternal perspective. In Colossians 3:1-2, the Apostle Paul instructs believers, "Therefore, 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." This passage encourages Christians to focus on heavenly realities rather than being consumed by earthly matters.

Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Paul writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Here, the transient nature of earthly struggles is contrasted with the enduring glory of eternity, urging believers to maintain a focus on the unseen and eternal.

Jesus' Teachings

Jesus Christ frequently taught about the importance of an eternal perspective. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructed His followers, "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" (Matthew 6:19-21). This teaching highlights the futility of earthly wealth and the enduring value of heavenly treasures.

In another instance, Jesus emphasized the eternal significance of one's soul, asking, "What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?" (Matthew 16:26). This rhetorical question underscores the incomparable worth of the soul and the necessity of prioritizing its eternal well-being.

Practical Implications

Living with an eternal perspective affects every aspect of a believer's life. It influences decision-making, relationships, and the use of time and resources. Believers are called to live as "aliens and strangers" in the world (1 Peter 2:11), recognizing that their true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20).

This perspective encourages a life of holiness and obedience to God's commands, as seen in 1 John 2:15-17: "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not from the Father but from the world. The world is passing away, along with its desires; but whoever does the will of God remains forever."

Hope and Assurance

An eternal perspective provides hope and assurance in the face of life's challenges and uncertainties. Romans 8:18 offers comfort, stating, "I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us." This assurance of future glory helps believers endure trials with patience and faith.

Furthermore, the promise of eternal life with God is a central tenet of the Christian faith. In John 14:2-3, Jesus assures His disciples, "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am." This promise of eternal fellowship with Christ motivates believers to live with an eternal perspective, eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of God's promises.