In Touch - Sept. 18, 2008

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Published Sep 17, 2008

September 18, 2008
Eternal Life With Jesus
Luke 23:42-43

Some people question whether hell actually exists. They wonder, How could someone in heaven have no sadness while realizing loved ones are suffering eternal punishment?

Humanly speaking, it’s hard to understand. We know that in the afterlife, those who have rejected Jesus will mourn (Matt. 13:42). But Scripture makes it clear that eternity in Christ’s presence will be pure joy. We are reassured that “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death, . . . mourning, or crying, or pain” (Rev. 21:4).

But notice the beginning of verse 4. Before entering heaven, believers will probably shed some tears as well. Even Christians will undergo judgment, but not to determine where they will spend eternity. Rather, God will bring to light His children’s pure and impure actions, thoughts, and motives (1 Cor. 4:5). We’ll no doubt be grieved to see what opportunities were missed and where we did not act in a godly fashion. Yet the Lord will dry our eyes and bring us into His glory, where we won’t experience any pain or sadness.

Once we enter eternity with Him, we will not long for anything—even if we do have an awareness that a loved one is absent from heaven, there will be no discontent. At that point, our desires will perfectly align with His, and He will fulfill each one—anything we lack will no longer be something we want.

Eternity is a long time, and heaven will be indescribably wonderful. Trusting Christ as Savior is the only way to guarantee it will be your destination beyond this life.

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The Life Principles Bible