Hebrews 11:16 – But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. (KJV)

My first visit to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, was quite amazing to me, considering the level of development, with a good road network, street lighting, and a very clean environment. To me, it was just like a mini-London. The trees were well arranged, and it is a place where nature can nurture a fellow for the future. I saw cars there that I have never seen before in my entire life. Before moving to the slum area, I was privileged to put up in one of the highbrow areas, Gwarimpa, the largest estate in Africa. The slum was characterized by crime and criminality, but I was not bothered, since I needed a place to start off life from. Although I witnessed violence and even a bomb blast in the slum area, I experienced a relative peace because God was with me.

No matter how beautiful a city may be, it is still not free from crime. But the heavenly city is the safest. It is the divine country home of the Almighty God. This is what the Scripture tells us about it:

Matthew 6:20 – But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. (KJV)

This means that we who are believers in Christ are to focus our desires on heaven, which is a better option compared to where we are now. It is a place of rest for all believers in Jesus. He told us that in His father's house there are many mansions and that He has gone to prepare a place for us (John 14:2). This is a sure promise for all believers. Heaven is a better country and a true city of safety, peace, rest, and comfort.

The greatest architect of all ages is God Almighty. He is a master planner and builder, and our chief security officer. He wants us to have at the back of our mind that life is short, death is certain, and eternity is forever. After our sojourn here on earth, He wants us to be with Him in heaven and to rest from all our labours. Heaven is the safest place.

Do we desire this better country as well? This is a Scripture we can apply:

John 3:3 – Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (KJV)

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus Christ, grant us the grace to live in obedience to You so that we can look forward to being in heaven with You. Amen.

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About the author:

Onome Ogbajibrede <devotionalembassy@gmail.com>
Nigeria
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