The journey of a Christian doesn’t end with uncertainty; our destiny in Jesus Christ is already secured. This article explores why believers should have confidence in their salvation, the role of the rapture, the importance of living with an eternal perspective, and how we should actively serve God while awaiting Christ’s return. Whether you're a lifelong Christian, a new believer, or someone still searching for answers, this message is for you.
Our Destiny in Christ Is Secure
Many people wrestle with the question: Will I really make it to heaven? The answer for Christians is a resounding yes! The Bible assures us that those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior are guaranteed eternal life.
Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:1–2,
If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.
This means our focus should be on God’s promises rather than the temporary concerns of this world. Once we are in Christ Jesus, our future is not in question—we belong to Him.
Two Ways We Leave This World
For every believer, there are only two ways we will leave this earth:
• Physical death – As Hebrews 9:27 states, It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. Death is not the end for Christians; it’s simply a transition into eternity with Christ.
• The rapture – If we are alive when Christ returns, we will be caught up with Him in the clouds (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
Either way, we will stand before Christ—but not to be judged for our sins. That judgment has already been taken care of on the cross. Instead, believers will be evaluated for how they lived their lives for Christ.
What Is the Rapture?
The term rapture isn’t found in our English Bibles, but it comes from the Greek word harpazo, meaning “to be caught up” or “snatched away.” The Latin translation uses rapturo, which is where we get the word rapture.
Paul explained this to the Thessalonians, who were concerned about their fate after death:
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17)
This moment will be sudden and glorious. The key takeaway? If you are in Jesus Christ, you will be with Him.
Why We Need to Keep Looking Up
The Bible frequently tells us to lift our eyes heavenward.
• Psalm 121:1 – I will lift up my eyes to the hills—From whence comes my help?
• Isaiah 40:26 – Lift up your eyes on high, and see who has created these things…
• Daniel 4:34 – I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me…
• John 11:41 – Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.”
Looking up is not just about physically gazing toward the sky; it’s about keeping our hearts and minds focused on Jesus Christ, expecting His return, and living in the reality of His promises.
Christians Are Called to Action
Salvation is not a ticket to sit back and wait for heaven. We are called to be active in our faith. Paul compares the Christian life to a race:
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. (1 Corinthians 9:24–25)
We don’t run this race alone—we have the Holy Spirit to guide us. Every act of obedience, every soul we bring to Christ, and every effort to live righteously will be rewarded.
The Judgment Seat of Christ
While believers will not face condemnation for sin (Romans 8:1), we will stand before Christ to give an account of our lives. This is called the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10).
For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. (Matthew 16:27)
This judgment is not about determining whether we go to heaven or hell—that was settled when we accepted Christ. Instead, it’s about rewards. Just as athletes receive medals, we will receive crowns for our faithfulness.
Living for the Eternal Prize
As believers, our goal is not earthly success but eternal impact. Psalm 103:10–12 reminds us that God has removed our sins as far as the east is from the west. That means we don’t need to fear judgment for our past failures—we need to focus on living faithfully now.
The enemy would love to convince us that we’re not good enough, that we’ve messed up too badly, or that we’ll never make it. But the truth is, our destiny has already been settled in Christ!
Final Encouragement: Run with Confidence
If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, your eternity is secure. Now, your mission is to run your race well. Keep your eyes on Jesus, share His love with others, and live every day in the hope of His return.
One day, we will stand before Him, not in fear, but in joy—ready to receive our eternal reward.
About the Author
Am a passionate writer and teacher of biblical truths, dedicated to helping believers grow in their faith and understand God’s promises. With years of studying and teaching Scripture, I share insights that encourage and equip readers to live with an eternal perspective. A firm believer in the hope found in Jesus Christ, I write with enthusiasm, making deep biblical truths accessible and engaging for all.