TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life… Revelation 22:1-2a
Read: Revelation 22:1-5
Listen: Revelation 22
TODAY’S MESSAGE
The tabernacle had elements that mirror the Garden of Eden (such as the lampstand), and so too does the new city of God. A river ran through the Garden of Eden, and in the middle was the tree of life (Genesis 2:8-9). The new city also has a river flowing through the middle with the tree of life on each side. John’s revelation shows us we are headed toward a city that represents a new garden where God will restore his people to the same close friendship he had with Adam and Eve.
In Eden, Adam and Eve had the job to rule over all living things in the garden (Genesis 1:28). In the new garden, we too will reign with God over his new creation. We will explore it, understand it and fully utilize its resources with a perfect connection to our planet.
We are stewards of what God has given us today—just like we will be when Jesus comes back and we are restored to the new garden. We start living out our future job description now when we take care of each other and the planet God created for us.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Consider what it takes to be a steward of others and the earth. Write a list of a few things you can (re)start today. Then do 1-2 things this week to honor God’s creation by being a good steward now and throughout this new year.
2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE
Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse!
PSALMS 119:11
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
