Several people around me are either facing severe health issues or have died recently. Even when we know the person is a believer in Jesus Christ and has a destination in heaven, there is sorrow. We hate to see loved ones go through pain. We miss them when they pass.

The world’s view of death, which is centered on loss, can dominate our thinking. “Her time was too soon,” or “He was taken from us too early” are common statements. No doubt, we feel that way when we lose a young person, a child, or someone who has been in our lives for a short time. There’s no denying our feelings.

However, we can be encouraged when we consider what Jesus has to say about death for the believer: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:23 NIV) That’s a powerful, clear statement. Yes, we die on earth but live eternally in heaven.

And let’s not grow weary of the Bible’s most popular verse, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV)

Jesus is our path to eternal life. To prove his statement claiming to be the resurrection and the life, Jesus rose from the dead. He walked this earth after the resurrection, seen by thousands.

Paul drove home the resurrection truth to remind the early church, just as we need to be reminded. “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.” (1 Corinthians 1:21-22 NIV)

Jesus has conquered death and he is taking us with him!

It’s alright to miss someone who has passed into eternity with Jesus. You were created to love God and other people, so loss is hard. But, if they know Jesus, you’ll be reunited with them on the other side.

But our hearts should grieve for the person who dies without Christ. That’s tragic.

Let’s be faithful prayer warriors for family members and friends who don’t know Jesus. We should be driven to our knees knowing that, right now, eternal life is not theirs.

My friend, if you know Jesus as your personal Savior, do not fear death. Rejoice that he has conquered death and you’ll find your eternal home with him. That’s your destination. Don’t be distracted by temporal satisfactions that convince you that this world is the best thing you have.

Jesus is your conqueror.  

Reflect on that powerful truth and let it be your encouragement today.

(From my new devotional Your Life With God: 30 Days of Encouragement. Get it on Amazon in Kindle and paperback editions.)