“These all died in faith, … having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.” (Hebrews 11:13)
God promises His children that they will be with Him forever after their physical death. He will create new heavens and a new earth, where God and man will dwell together in love and harmony. That is the real home believers are longing for. That is the kingdom they actually belong to.
At the same time, they are citizens of a particular country, belonging to a certain family and social group. This creates a tension. They are living in the world, but are not completely part of it. This can lead to alienation and even persecution, as Jesus warns His disciples: “Because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you” (John 15:19).
But even when a Christian is living a comfortable life, this is not his ultimate destination. As long as believers live on earth, they are “strangers and exiles”. And it is important to keep that in mind. Otherwise, the cares of this world can keep us so busy that we lose the right perspective on life. We should seek first the kingdom of God, and He will give us all these other things we need.
What is your #1 priority in life?