Doreen Button

Randy uses the term universe to mean what we extrapolate from astronomical observation to be the place in space where we exist and that there could be other realms with their own space and time which may be separate or may intersect.

Since the scenario you are envisioning did not happen, we have no biblical basis for an answer. Your question also implies that the world, as it is now, is a sort of Plan B. It’s easy to think that because we know God hates sin and yet, because we know He is both sovereign and omniscient, there is no other way for the world to be right now.

John speaks to a time in the future when we are completely and eternally re-united with our physical bodies, finally glorified, and with the One we love best.

Thank you for your honesty about your quest to have a meaningful relationship with Jesus. I see a couple of comments that may hold the key to freedom for you.

Jesus wants all of you. He came to set you free. He said so in John 8:36. What you’ve written sounds like anything but freedom. 

God bless you as you continue to seek what lasts, and I pray that when you present your musical gift before the Throne that you will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into your Master’s happiness.”

If your sole motivation is rewards in Heaven, as opposed to reflecting God’s love through you to others, I think you should talk that over with your Father and ask His Spirit to give you the desires He wants you to have. 

I hope this answer clarifies what is possible to know based on Scripture, and provokes some thoughts about what we don’t know for sure.

Please notice that our job is to believe and to seek. The rewards are up to Him. So chase Him, and let Him take care of the rewards and life direction and all the other ‘wind and waves’ circumstances in your life.