A new earth is on the way where righteousness dwells!

“But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 2:13 ESV)

Easter is just about here again and we are reminded about Jesus’ death on the cross and His resurrection. The crucifixion of Christ is recorded in all four gospels: Matthew 27:33-44; Mark 15:22-32; Luke 23:33-43; John 19:17-30.

No one has experienced more pain and suffering than Jesus did on the day He went to the cross!

The Bible said Jesus was beaten so severely you could barely recognize that He was human. (Isa. 52:14).

Psalm 22:14–18 (NIV) details some of the suffering of the Messiah

“I am poured out like water, And all My bones are out of joint; My heart is like wax; It has melted within Me. My strength is dried up like a potsherd, And My tongue clings to My jaws; You have brought Me to the dust of death. For dogs have surrounded Me; The congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They pierced My hands and My feet;  I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots.”

Why did He do it?

The  Bible said he endured all this because he was able to look ahead to the joy it would bring Him. (Heb. 12:2). He became the redeemer of mankind! It was through the cross that the Son of God triumphed over Satan, sin, and death. “Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out.” (John 12:31; Col. 2:15)

Now, because of what He did for us, we have much joy to look forward to!

Because we have been redeemed, we have an amazing future to look forward to! We will eventually get to experience “new heavens and new earth in which righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 2:13).  Therefore, if you are dealing with a few present difficulties, rejoice! The best is yet to come!