What Are You Doing Now for Your Eternal Future?
Published on: 27th December 2021
Eternity is a concept that has fascinated humanity for millennia. It stretches beyond time, beyond our limited perception of life, and into a reality that is both mysterious and profound. How do we perceive eternity? How does it influence our past, present, and future? And most importantly, how can we prepare for an eternal future?
This article will explore the concept of eternity in depth—what it truly means, how to see life through the lens of eternity, why we naturally perceive time in this way, and the significance of eternal thinking in shaping our lives. If you have ever pondered the meaning of life beyond death, questioned what happens after we leave this world, or considered the impact of our actions on eternity, then this exploration is for you.
What Is Eternity?
Eternity, as defined in both philosophical and spiritual contexts, refers to an everlasting or unending existence. It encompasses both eternity past and eternity future. However, in this article, we will focus primarily on the eternity future—what lies ahead and how our present actions shape it.
Life, as another form of energy, cannot be created or destroyed. The same principle applies to the human soul. While our physical bodies may perish, our existence continues beyond this realm. Many religious and spiritual traditions support this idea, reinforcing the belief that life does not end with death but transitions into a new dimension.
If life is eternal, it must be connected to its Creator—God. This belief suggests that life existed long before our earthly arrival and will continue indefinitely. Many traditions affirm that eternity is not just a theoretical idea but a fundamental reality of existence.
Is Eternity a Scientific or Spiritual Concept?
Eternity is often associated with spiritual teachings, but science also hints at concepts that align with eternal existence. The laws of energy conservation state that energy cannot be destroyed, only transformed. Could our consciousness, our very essence, follow the same principle? Quantum physics has begun to challenge our traditional understanding of time, suggesting that reality may be more complex than we assume.
Regardless of whether one views eternity through a spiritual or scientific lens, the notion remains compelling. Our actions in the present moment carry consequences beyond what we can immediately perceive. Understanding eternity can give life a greater sense of meaning and purpose.
How to See Life in the Eyes of Eternity?
How do we adopt an eternal perspective in our daily lives? This is not just a philosophical question—it has practical implications for how we live, think, and act. We can perceive life in eternity in two primary ways: naturally and intentionally.
The Natural Awareness of Eternity
Humans possess an inherent awareness of eternity. This awareness is embedded in cultures worldwide, suggesting that the belief in an afterlife or a continuous existence beyond death is universal. Even in ancient times, civilizations prepared their dead for the next life, building pyramids, tombs, and monuments to honor their spirits.
This deep-rooted understanding of eternity is not learned in schools; it is intuitive. For instance, the Nuer people of South Sudan say, “Ci yieede jieen,” meaning “his/her spirit has left the body.” Similarly, the Dinka people say, “Aci wei jal,” which also signifies that the person’s soul has departed but continues to exist elsewhere.
The Intentional Focus on Eternity
Beyond our natural awareness, we can also develop an intentional mindset toward eternity. This means making conscious choices that reflect an understanding of our eternal future. It requires reflecting on questions such as:
- What impact do my actions have beyond my lifetime?
- Am I investing in things that have lasting significance?
- How do I align my life with the eternal principles of love, justice, and wisdom?
Recognizing that life on earth is only a fraction of our eternal journey helps us make better decisions. It shifts our focus from temporary pleasures to lasting fulfillment.
Why Do We See Life in Eternity?
Why do humans naturally contemplate eternity? The answer lies in both nature and nurture. Our innate awareness of eternity is something we are born with, but it is also reinforced by the teachings and traditions of our societies.
The Role of Religion and Philosophy
Religious teachings across cultures emphasize eternal existence. Christianity speaks of heaven and hell, Islam describes Jannah and Jahannam, Hinduism and Buddhism introduce the idea of reincarnation, and ancient Greek philosophy contemplates the immortality of the soul. These ideas persist because they resonate with something deep within us—the notion that our journey does not end with physical death.
Personal Encounters with Eternity
Near-death experiences (NDEs) provide compelling anecdotal evidence for eternal existence. Many people who have had NDEs report encountering a bright light, feelings of peace, or meeting deceased loved ones. While skeptics attribute these experiences to neurological activity, others believe they offer a glimpse into the afterlife.
The Importance of Seeing Life in Eternity
Does thinking about eternity really matter? The answer is a resounding yes. Having an eternal perspective changes the way we approach life. Here are some key benefits of adopting this mindset:
1. It Gives Life Meaning and Purpose
When we recognize that our lives are part of an eternal continuum, we begin to see our daily actions in a new light. We start valuing relationships, personal growth, and ethical choices more than material possessions or short-term gains.
2. It Reduces Fear of Death
Fear of death is one of humanity’s greatest anxieties. However, embracing the concept of eternity diminishes this fear. If life continues beyond the grave, then death is not an end but a transition.
3. It Encourages a Legacy Mindset
When we think in terms of eternity, we strive to leave a positive legacy. We become more mindful of the values we pass down to future generations. This shift in perspective leads us to focus on kindness, wisdom, and impact rather than just personal success.
4. It Promotes Ethical Living
If eternity is real, then our actions have lasting consequences. This encourages moral behavior, honesty, and integrity. The belief that we will be accountable for our choices makes us more mindful of how we treat others.
Practical Steps to Live with an Eternal Perspective
How can we incorporate eternal thinking into our daily lives? Here are some practical steps:
- Reflect on Your Legacy: Ask yourself, “How do I want to be remembered?”
- Prioritize Relationships: Invest time in meaningful relationships rather than temporary distractions.
- Cultivate Spiritual Awareness: Engage in practices such as meditation, prayer, or study of sacred texts.
- Live with Purpose: Align your actions with values that have lasting significance.
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Growth and wisdom are investments in your eternal journey.
Final Words: What Will You Do for Your Eternity?
Now that you have explored the concept of eternity, what will you do with this understanding? Will you dismiss it as mere philosophy, or will you embrace it as a guiding principle for your life?
Each of us has a choice. We can either live for the fleeting moment or invest in things that last beyond time. Thinking about eternity is not just a religious or philosophical exercise—it is a call to live a life of deeper purpose, greater meaning, and lasting impact.
What are you doing today for your eternal future? The decision is yours.
Shalom and may you find clarity on your eternal journey.
