“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12)
The Bible often describes the life of believers as a race. Along the way, we encounter trials. Some Christians suffer for their faith; they are thrown into prison and persecuted. Others experience intense spiritual warfare and struggle against all kinds of temptations or existential doubt. Following Jesus can be exhausting! But those who finish the race, will be awarded a victory wreath or crown.
Such a wreath can be compared to a gold medal in major sports competitions. But in God’s Kingdom, there is not just one victory wreath for the “best believer.” On the contrary; everyone who remains faithful until death will receive the crown of life (see Revelation 2:10 and 2 Timothy 4:8). They will once again share in God’s glory, spending eternity in His presence.
At creation, humans were appointed as kings and priests to rule over the earth. That mission failed miserably. But soon they will reign as kings and priests of God on the new earth, crowned with His goodness and grace.
How do you imagine life on the new earth? What will it be like to live there forever with God?