A Better Country

Following an election like we've had in this country, it is expected that some will be pleased with the outcome and some will not. As Christians, whichever side we fall on, in this and every election, it is important to keep things in perspective.

Those of us who live in the United States of America have the blessing of being able to live in what is arguably the greatest country on earth. We have the freedom to worship God and teach the gospel. We have the opportunity to work and provide for our families. We live without fear of persecution or harassment from the government. Many around the world cannot ever expect to experience these blessings in their lifetime.

But as great as this country is, we seek a better country. This better country is not contained in campaign promises and political rhetoric. It is not obtained through congressional legislation or presidential policy. It is not preserved and maintained by law enforcement and military might. The better country we desire is one we will never see here on earth.

The Hebrew writer describes the faithful of old who sought after this better country:

“All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a country of their own. And indeed if they had been thinking of that country from which they went out, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them” (Hebrews 11:13-16).

The better country we desire is our home in heaven. We, like these, must seek it in faith. We must put our trust in Almighty God, hear Him, believe Him, obey Him.

While we should be thankful to God for the blessing of living here, we must remember that there is something more important than our American citizenship. It is our heavenly citizenship. “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).

Whatever our opinion of the election results, let us not take our eyes off of the goal. Our home is in heaven. We are eagerly waiting for the Lord to return to take us home. Never lose sight of that.