The Bible tells us that death will be the last enemy to be destroyed (1Corinthians 15:26)—and death is indeed our enemy. A foreign invader in this world, death is out of place and unwelcome. This is why we mourn at a funeral—because funerals were never meant to be. In the Old Testament, King David trusted the Lord to rescue his soul from the grave, resting in the hope that in the life after death, he would find himself in the presence of God, where there is “abundant joy” (Psalm 16:11).
But the hope of the Christian life is not only life after death; it’s much more than that. Yes, Jesus promised His followers eternal life, but He also spoke of a new life that starts right here and now. It is life with God, and it is eternal because God is eternal. Praying to the Father, Jesus said, “This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and the one you have sent—Jesus Christ” (John 17:3).
This promised life is abundant life (John 10:10). And how could it not be? David was right when he wrote that there is joy in the presence of God. Through the Holy Spirit, we carry that presence with us wherever we go. Life is not easy, but we can be joyful no matter what happens, because God is with us. Whether we die before the Lord returns or are caught up to meet Him in the air when He does (1Thessalonians 4:17), the life we have in Christ will continue. “Where, death, is your sting?” (1Corinthians 15:55).
Oh death where is your sting? (1 Cor 15:55) What a wonderful day that will be when we all go HOME whether by death on this earth or when Jesus comes to get us. My daughter and I have these conversations and long to go HOME.! Meanwhile we wait. While life can be hard sometimes I’m thankful for the JOY that God gives us. Sometimes it’s in the early morning sunrise other times it’s sitting outside with my son drinking “iced” pour-over coffee that he made for us and the 2 of us watching the sun go down. It’s breathtaking. I will cherish these nights forever.
I love this Mari! We can long for heaven but also savor our time on earth. And it’s truly the little things in life that can bring the greatest joy!
Thank you Jesus that we have eternal life. The promise today was so needed. Jesus said it multiple times that the only way to eternal life is by believing in him. There is hope in Jesus, peace, forgiveness and joy! This reminder is what I needed today. For no reason I’ve been feeling a little down and reading these words really have helped me not overthink things right now. Have a blessed day everyone ❤️
What a message of Unwavering Hope …. and Knowing. Makes my heart beat fast in celebration!
Thank You :)
What a wonderful reading this morning and such a great reminder of abundant and eternal life. One of my favorite passages: Romans 6:23 ‘For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.’ Thank you Jesus!
This is very encouraging to know that he provides when we ask but he provides what’s meant for us .
❤️
In your presence is fullness of joy… Ps 16:11
So encouraging!!! Eternal life is knowing God. Not just in heaven one day. Personally. Now. There is joy in his presence… And his presence is all-encompassing. He is behind you, and beside you, and before you and within you! John 15:11 tells us to abide in Christ, so that you will be filled with HIS joy! We can do that now! Then the best part of heaven will be the full realization of God’s presence! When Joy is complete! My heart it longs to go! ❤️
Something that was revealed to me as I read these scripture passages was how much if my fear is rooted in not fully resting in God’s promise of eternal life. I place my hope in all these other things (my work, my children, my friendships, my spouse) and when they fail me or when they hurt me, I crumble; or I get overcome with worry that something will happen to them. God’s presence offers us abundant joy. It is in His presence that we experience the peace of a heavenly perspective.
This is true for me as well. Thank you for your insight.