“In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will.”

— Ephesians 1:11

Has someone ever included you in his or her will? If so, you might have a small inkling of what it means to be included in the will and testament of God. When God’s will and testament are read, we shall receive glorious things beyond even our wildest imagination. No one in the world could possibly have the slightest conception of the full wonders that God has provided for those who love Him. As Christ’s heirs we receive deliverance from death and the promise of eternal life. He vows to meet all our needs from His abundance, and He works all things together for our good. And one day He will take us to live with Him in Paradise.

Don’t you wonder what Paradise will be like? We’ve seen countless wonders God has created on this earth—how much more splendid will Heaven be? What will it be like when there is no more pain, sorrow, or separation? In this life, many people endure great pain. Many suffer sorrow and heartache over loved ones. Others feel depressed. Yet others are separated from those whom they love. But in Heaven we’ll have no more separation, sickness, heartache, loss, pain, or death. The things of this earth will have passed away. Our release from these things is part of the inheritance God has prepared for His children.

How can you and I receive this inheritance? Paul tells us: “In him we were also chosen… that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation” (Ephesians 1:11–13, niv). Put your faith in Jesus, and He will reserve this inheritance for you.

“The key to heaven is shaped like a cross and those that would
enter therein do so by trusting in the cross of Christ.”