What Would Change?

Key Thought | Keeping eternity in view has a way of clarifying what truly matters today.

Key Scripture | “From then on Jesus began to preach, ‘Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.’” —Matthew 4:17 (NLT)

Matthew 4 marks a powerful turning point. Jesus emerges from forty days of fasting and temptation and begins to preach—not with vague ideas or distant promises, but with a clear declaration: “The Kingdom of Heaven is near.” What had once been prophesied through John the Baptist was now fully present. The message had become a person. Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit, carried the Kingdom with Him.

This moment reminds us that the Kingdom of God isn’t just something we wait for. It’s something we’re invited to respond to right now.

For years, a simple question has surfaced in my quiet time, and once again it returned: What would change in my life if I knew Jesus was coming back tomorrow?

It’s not a question we hear asked as often anymore. And for some, it was once framed in fear rather than love. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t still worth asking. Scripture tells us that God has placed eternity in our hearts. We are meant to live with a sense that this life is not all there is.

And yet, it’s easy to become anchored here, to live as though this world is our final home instead of a temporary place we pass through. Jesus consistently points our attention heavenward, reminding us to stay rooted in eternal realities, not earthly ones.

The Kingdom of God is here now, but it is also incomplete. What we experience today is only a foretaste. The Holy Spirit within us is described as a guarantee, a down payment of what is still to come. While many of us desire more power, more gifts, or more visible movement, perhaps one of the clearest signs of spiritual maturity is an eternal perspective.

Reality is always our friend. And Jesus is remarkably clear. He doesn’t avoid the truth or soften it unnecessarily. He says plainly, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
When eternity stays in view, priorities shift. Some things lose their grip. Other things suddenly matter more. And often, the Spirit gently reveals what needs to change—not with condemnation, but with grace.

If the Holy Spirit is highlighting something that would change if eternity were clearer in view, why wait? Lean into His grace today. Small, obedient steps taken now prepare us to live ready—not fearful, but hopeful, expectant, and even joyful as we look toward what’s to come.

Prayer | Jesus, thank You for bringing the Kingdom near. Help me live with eternity in my heart and wisdom in my daily choices. Gently reveal anything You’re inviting me to surrender or realign, and give me grace to respond. I want to live ready and rooted in what matters most. Amen.

Reflection

• What tends to take up most of your attention and energy right now?
• How might your perspective shift if eternity stayed more present in your daily life?

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