Caught Up Into Paradise
Wednesday, May 6
2 Corinthians 12:2-4 (NKJV)
“I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven.And I know such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows—how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.”
Devotion
There is coming a day when we, too, will be caught up and enter into His rest. What hope and joy this should bring us, knowing that one day we will dwell in the glorious presence of our Heavenly Father.
This past Sunday’s sermon was a powerful reminder that this world is not our final home. Pastor Franklin emphasized the reality of Heaven and the hope believers have beyond the suffering of this present life. His message pointed our hearts toward eternity—toward the promise that after all pain, tribulation, and sorrow, there is Paradise in the presence of God.
Many may have had dreams or even visions, like Paul and others throughout Scripture, that offer glimpses of Heaven. Yet these revelations are not meant merely to stir wonder—they should place endurance within us, strengthening us to keep running our race until the finish line.
We can press on, knowing that in the end, every pain, every tear, and every hardship we have faced will be worth it.
For in Heaven, there will be no more pain, no more sorrow, and no more tears. Above all, we will behold Jesus face to face.
In 2 Corinthians 12, Paul speaks of being caught up into the third heaven—Paradise, the dwelling place of God. Though his words were limited, his encounter reminds us that Heaven is not imagination; it is a real place. For believers, our ending is not destruction, torment, or despair—but eternal life in the presence of God.
Though we may walk through temporary suffering here on earth, and though some seasons may feel unbearable, this suffering is not our final destination. Pastor Franklin’s message reminded us that we do not endure alone, and we do not endure without hope.
As we fix our eyes on eternity, the temporary sufferings of this present life begin to lose their power. The burdens of this world will one day subside, and what now feels heavy will give way to glory.
May we remember that the suffering of this life is temporary and will not define eternity. Yet Heaven should not be our only reason for looking up—our deepest longing should be to be with the Lord Himself, to dwell in His presence, and to worship His holy name forever.
Revelation 21:4: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the hope of eternity with You. Strengthen my heart when life feels heavy and remind me that this world is not my home. Help me to endure with faith, to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, and to live each day with Heaven in view. Fill me with peace knowing that every tear and trial is temporary, but Your presence is eternal. I long to dwell with You forever. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Let trials not harden your heart, but instead draw you closer to the presence of the One you will one day see face to face.
Resources
- Let your heart be encouraged by “The Hope of Heaven.” A short but powerful reminder of the eternal promise we have in Jesus.be
- Read Romans 8:18 and be strengthened—your current season is not the final story.