8-19-06 Revelation 22:14

Revelation 22:14 (KJ21)
Blessed are they that do His commandments that they may have right to the Tree of Life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

Revelation 22:14 (NAS)
Blessed are those who wash their robes that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city.

Revelation 22:14(NIVUS)
Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.

Revelation 22:14 (NLT)
Blessed are those who wash their robes so they can enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the tree of life.

The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America states that every man, woman, and child has the right to the pursuit of happiness. People pursue happiness in many ways, such as hobbies or relationships. Often this pursuit leads into sinful actions. Happiness obtained in this way is fleeting at best. Then it takes more and more sexual exploits, more and more drugs, and more and more alcohol to get the same "buzz". The pursuit soon seems futile, but people continue along this meaningless path, for it is the only way they know.

There is, however, a much better way to pursue happiness. The word of God says a man is happy and blessed when he does what Adonai, the Supreme God, says to do. Following His orders and commandments will cause you to do well and act rightly. Keeping yourself in line with these precepts will prepare you for anything.

The Lord God has given you the freedom of choice and the liberty to do as you please. You can choose to do as He wishes or you can choose to follow your own wants and desires. You should realize that the choices you make today will affect your future.

When you choose to follow God's way, He will give you rights and privileges in His Kingdom that others will not have. One of these is the right to the Tree of Life. By partaking of this tree, you will have a life that is real and genuine, and active and vigorous. Your life will be full and satisfying as you devote yourself to the Most High God. You will enjoy your life, for the Lord will keep you strong and fresh. And when you die, He will give you a new body that will last forever.

You will be a 'card carrying' citizen of Heaven and you will be able to go in through the gates of city. Because you chose to follow the Lord's commandments now, you will have access to everything God offers in the future.