There is a condition that must be met before we qualify as an heir. An inheritance awaits those who've put their faith in the finished work of God's Son ... in whom we receive the 'Spirit of Adoption'.
Romans 8:16-17 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
With great anticipation, God's children look forward to an inheritance ... that of eternal life. When seen in the light of the Lord's immutable promise, the hardships we experience while we wait are but small discomforts compared to an eternity in heaven. The Holy Spirit strengthens us to endure until our heirship is consummated.
Romans 8:16-18 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
We have a right to look forward to the full possession of that which we now possess only in principle.
C S Lewis - A continual looking forward to the eternal world is not a form of escapism or wishful thinking, but one of the things a Christian is meant to do. It does not mean that we are to leave the present world as it is. You will find that the Christians who did the most for the present world were those who thought most of the next.
The hope of eternal life is not just some ethereal pipe dream ... it has deep roots in the heart and mind of every believer. Through the Holy Spirit, it is the anticipation of what we know is coming.
This blessed hope is an anchor for our soul ... both sure and steadfast.
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