Yes. If we always have what we are looking for, then, we’ll not be as obedient towards God. God loves us as He knows that we are living in a sinful world. Everyone will suffer and die, no exception. But, the difference is whether one will go to heaven (the New Jerusalem) or go to hell (the Lake of Fire) at the end of this world. God made man in His image so that a person can make his/her own decision. That means a person can always make his/her own choice. Therefore, it is uttermost important that we are making the right choice, that is to Accept and Obey God.
Since Jesus is a good shepherd, He always guide His sheep to the safety places. He also takes extra care of the lost sheep. Hence, David said in Psalms 23:4, “Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”
In the case of Paul, the Resurrected Jesus did not give Paul what he had asked for. God knows the limits of a person. He wants His loved ones to be with Him with Eternal Life. The teachings made by Jesus in the following will help us to understand more: “The truth is, a kernel of wheat must be planted in the soil. Unless it dies it will be alone – a single seed. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who despise their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. All those who want to be my disciples must come and follow me, because my servants must be where I am.” (John 12:24-26 NLT).”
That is why God promises His true believers with Eternal Life. He did not promise that we can live in this world forever, nor we would not suffer both spiritually and physically here.
Lets share the following two segments of statements made by the Resurrected Jesus:
“To all who are victorious, who obey me to the very end, I will give authority over all the nations. They will rule the nations with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots. They will have the same authority I received from my Father, and I will also give them the morning star!” (Revelation 2:26-28 NLT)
“I advise you to buy gold from me – gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. And also buy white garments so you will not be shamed by your nakedness. And buy ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see. I am the one who corrects and disciplines everyone I love. Be diligent and turn from your indifference.
Look! Here I stand at the door and knock. If you hear me calling and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal as friends. I will invite everyone who is victorious to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat with my Father on his throne. (Revelation 3:18-21 NLT)
John
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