Have you ever thanked someone for what he or she would do for you in the future? This seems strange to us when we think in human terms but it is very important when we consider the outcome of our relationship with the one who created us. The passage gives some insights as to what the future holds in his eternal purpose and plan. Those who know and love him are to live thankfully in the light of his promise for the future.

This future thanksgiving has a number of implications. It looks forward to an immortal body which has been raised to eternal life and the everlasting worship of God because of who he is and what he has done in the past. Also it looks forward to a new heaven and a new earth where there is right living which honours God. There will be no more suffering or pain.

Thirdly, in this new world, God will reign forever unopposed. The conflict and strife which we see all around us, and sometimes inside us, will be done away with. His perfect rule will be the delight and joy of all those who have rightly responded to his free offer of mercy. God’s past actions, in Jesus Christ, shape believers today so that they can look forward, with thanksgiving, to an eternal future with him.