That's a big question many have. And because they cannot answer it, they fear dying. When you think about it, it can be scary, losing everything we know and understand to something we don't. The anxiety over this loss is so great that people attempt to put off what essentially is a guaranteed future event. The truth is at some point every one of us will have our earthly bodies cease to function.
So where did our fear begin?
Years ago, in order to get my children to obey, I would warn them of the prospect of death if a certain action was taken. You know the statement... "You could die if you do that." One day immediately after speaking those words, the Lord told me, "That's why people fear death."
It took time of changing my wording and my perceptions to get to a point where I stopped fearing the prospect of death. I don't know how I'll die but being dead is no longer a problem.
Perhaps you are among the many who see death from the physical aspect only. You know... the vital organs stop working, the physical body is silenced and non-existence begins. But, an earthly death is not an end. Think of the stopping of the human heart and lungs as the key to entering the door to eternity that takes us into the spiritual realm. It's a realm we sing about and maybe talk about, but most of us don't see it until our earthly bodies cease to work. In truth, it surrounds us even now.
Before we go further, let's look back to a key historical turning point. Hades held the dead captive due to the sinful nature of man. When a person passed away, there was no more contact
with God. But, when
Jesus died, He rocked the place. Once He arrived in Hades, those who believed
in Him as Messiah - Savior - were able to leave. (John 5:25-29;
Matthew 27:51-53) Those who believe in Him now, never experience that
separation.
When a loved one dies, it is often spoken that now they are in heaven and resting. I wish that were true for everyone. But, the fact remains, to get to heaven you must take the Jesus path. It's the only way through. If you enter death's door without Jesus then you are stuck in the hold of the prison of death.When we die, we will EITHER enter that place where the walls and streets are made of gold so pure that it's clear. (Rev 21:12-21) A place where there are many mansions/rooms. (John 14:1-6) A place where Jesus will reign over the new earth. (Rev 21:1-4) A place where trees grow tall and bear fruit every month (Revelation 22:2). A place where a banquet is being prepared for celebrating the marriage of the Lamb to the Church. (Psalm 23:5, Matthew 22:1-2) Biggest party ever!
Sounds like the place to be, right?
OR, for those who refused to know God and accept Jesus for who He truly is, they will watch from the other side of the great chasm. (Luke 16:23-31) There will not be celebration in that place. Separation from God's peace exists. Mourning and cries and sorrow will fill their days.
I hope that all who read this post will think about Jesus and accept Him for who He is and what He did for everyone. I don't know how I'll die. It could be a peaceful passing. It could be a painful uncomfortable way. OR, it could be the best way of all...it could be flying up in the air to meet Him upon His return. In any case, I look forward to life with Jesus on the other side of this earthly physical realm.
