Tuesday, August 6, 2024
This month, I will be turning the big 39, and getting closer to 40. I remember throwing an “over the hill” party for my dad as a child, thinking he was so old. Now that I am nearing that age, it’s interesting to see how my perception of “old” has changed.
As we grow older, we become more aware of our own mortality. The biggest question we often ponder is, “What happens when we die?”
The answer depends on our relationship with Christ.
John 5:24-25
24“I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death. 25And I assure you that the time is coming, indeed it’s here now, when the dead will hear my voice—the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live.”
We are promised everlasting life with Christ if we believe in him and follow his teachings as a result of that faith. Through his resurrection, Jesus has shown us there is life after death. Followers of Jesus do not have to worry about what happens after we die because we know we will join him in heaven. It does not matter whether you have had a lifelong relationship with Christ or have only just found him. We see this in the account of Jesus’ crucifixion.
On the cross, two thieves hung on either side of Jesus. One of the thieves was concerned about his fate after death due to the bad decisions he had made. He didn’t know if he was worthy of entering the Kingdom of God.
Luke 23:42-43
42 Then, he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” 43 And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Because of the thief’s faith, Jesus forgave his sins and promised to see him in heaven—paradise. This summer, many of us have caught glimpses of paradise, perhaps by traveling to a nearby lake or just enjoying the beautiful outdoors in our own backyard. Imagine how much more wonderful heaven will be. The promise of eternal paradise when we die gives us hope and the power to persevere on earth, and it demonstrates just how much Jesus loves us.
Questions:
Was there a time in your life when you pondered life after death?
Do you know someone who is struggling in their relationship with Christ?
What actions can you take today to draw closer to Christ and help others do the same?
Next Steps:
Not sure about life after death? There are many Scripture verses, including the famous John 3:16, that explain who enters heaven. Take some time to review scripture related to the afterlife.
Need some accountability on the life choices you’re making? Consider joining a Group. New Groups for fall will open in September.
Prayer:
Dear God, when I don’t think I am good enough, help me to remember the thief on the cross who asked for Jesus’ forgiveness. Help me to remember that he accepts our apologies for the poor choices we make. It is only through him that I am promised everlasting life. Help me take the necessary steps today to grow closer to Jesus forever. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Hebrews 3:14
For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ.
This post was written by Connie Disbro, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.