A Heaven Here and a Heaven Hereafter
The state of true grace brings happiness, safety, and assurance, yielding a heaven here and a heaven hereafter.
Thomas Brooks emphasizes that being in a state of true grace brings eternal happiness and security, making the soul cherished by God. He explains that while grace itself ensures a future in heaven, the awareness of being in that state provides a present joy and comfort, creating a 'heaven here' as well. Assurance of grace is portrayed as the pinnacle of a Christian's happiness, often accompanied by profound joy and peace. Brooks notes that many lack this assurance, yet it is a vital aspect of a blessed life. Ultimately, possessing grace and the certainty of it is akin to experiencing heaven on earth.
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To be in a state of true grace, is to be miserable no
more; it is to be happy forever. A soul in this state is
a soul near and dear to God. It is a soul much beloved,
and very highly valued by God. It is a soul housed in
God. It is a soul safe in God's everlasting arms. The
being in a state of grace makes a man's condition
happy, safe, and sure.
But the seeing, the knowing of himself to be in such a
state, is that which renders his life sweet and comfortable.
The being in a state of grace will yield a man a heaven
hereafter; but the seeing of himself in this state will yield
him both a heaven here and a heaven hereafter. It
will render him doubly blessed--blessed in heaven, and
blessed in his own conscience.
Assurance is the beauty and apex of a Christian's happiness
in this life. It is usually attended with the strongest joy, with
the sweetest comforts, and with the greatest peace. It is a
pearl that most want--a crown that few wear. His state is safe
and happy, whose soul is adorned with grace, though he sees
it not, though he knows it not. To have grace, and to be sure
that we have grace, is heaven on this side heaven.
Sermon Outline
- The State of True Grace
- Characteristics of a soul in a state of true grace
- A soul much beloved and highly valued by God
- A soul housed in God and safe in His everlasting arms
Key Quotes
“To be in a state of true grace, is to be miserable no more; it is to be happy forever.” — Thomas Brooks
“To have grace, and to be sure that we have grace, is heaven on this side heaven.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Recognize the beauty and value of being in a state of true grace.
- Seek assurance in your Christian walk, knowing it brings joy, comforts, and peace.
- Trust in God's love and value for you, even if you're not aware of it.