TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” Genesis 1:28
Read: Genesis 1:28
Listen: Genesis 1
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Jesus’s listeners on the hillside don’t hold power or position. Many worry about where their next meal will come from. Clothing is a treasured, guarded possession. Inheritance is something desired but feels like an impossible dream. Yet Jesus astounds them with a promise of inheritance as a blessing for their meekness (Matthew 5:5). Inheritance implies not only provision but being part of a family.
In the beginning, God charges humans to rule over the earth and all that is in it, to take care of it as he would, on his behalf. One day, Jesus will restore our broken planet to its original order. All sin, death, mourning and crying will pass away (Revelation 21:4). Jesus’s backward blessing points to a future restoration when all who submit to him will be his co-heirs and rulers (Romans 8:17).
This promise of inheriting the earth is for all who come to Jesus in meekness, allowing his authority to rule our lives. All who submit to Christ will someday rule with Christ. Instead of floating on clouds, playing harps—imagine what beauty, adventure, mystery and meaningful work await us for eternity. Our inheritance as God’s children will be beautiful beyond compare.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Praise God that one day he will restore our world, and we will have a place with him for eternity. Listen to the lyrics as the Ada Worship Team sings “Who You Say I Am.” Then, take time to journal thanks to God that there is a place for you in the Father’s house and that through Jesus, you are a child of God.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is 1 Corinthians 5.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
