Have we lived the year 2023 with eternity’s values in view? The Bible tells us that one day everything that is made on this earth will be destroyed. All these earthly things only have temporal value. So how do we live with eternity’s values in view? In 2 Peter 3:10-14, we learn of three tests which can help us confirm with certainty if we are living with eternity’s values in view. We need to pass all the three tests in order to be assured that we are living with eternity’s values in view.

1.  Mental preparedness (2 Pet 3:10)

To have mental preparedness is to see the future of this world with God's eyes. This world is a sinful world, and God will one day destroy it. Do we live with this fact constantly in our mind? Do we let it influence the decisions we make and the kind of life we choose to live? We must check our motives in everything that we do, and be prepared for the destruction of the world, and for the Lord's return.

2.  Heartfelt holiness (2 Pet 3:11-12)

Knowing that “all these things shall be dissolved” one day, our life must be lived “in all holy conversation and godliness” (2 Pet 3:11). The “conversation” refers to a turned-around life. The “all holy conversation” refers to our whole life (our behaviour and conduct) that does what is right biblically, according to the scripture, for Jesus' sake. When we are holy, Jesus’ name is holy. But when we are carnal, we bring shame to His name. Our walk with God is precious.

Thus, we must be holy in every aspect of our life. We must guard our lips, our words. Our holiness in Christ is eternal, and it will lead to godliness in our lives. Holiness requires us to get rid of sin. When we obey all that God tells us, we will be holy and godly. Holiness and godliness will lead us to grow in Christlikeness. And we will be ready for “the coming of the day of God” (2 Pet 3:12).

3.  Hopeful eternity (2 Pet 3:13-14)

We must keep our eyes on our final, eternal home, beyond the millennium. The new heaven and new earth will be our new home. Do we actively “look for such things” (2 Pet 3:14)? And hope and long for our eternal home in heaven? Righteousness prevails in heaven, and thus righteousness must the hallmark of our life on earth. We can be “in peace, without spot, and blameless” (2 Pet 3:14) because we have been washed by the blood of Jesus. In 2024, may righteousness increase, and unrighteousness decrease, in our life.

May we live 2024 with eternity’s values in view.