When I was a young man sitting in an adult Bible class, we discussed heaven and preparing for the day we die. I remember the teacher asking the class, “Could you say I am ready to die?” Someone commented that everyone should be asked that question, to which another responded, “You might not want to ask that to the President. I’m sure the Secret Service would have something to say!”

While it was humorous to ask a politician this question, it should be a sober thought we ask ourselves, am I ready to die?

“And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” Hebrews 9:27. Death is no respecter of persons. Some may have lived for hundreds of years, others for a few, but their end was all the same… Death.

The inevitability of Death is ever present. How often do we drive past a cemetery and think about the purpose of that place? When someone close to us dies, we are forcefully confronted with the cold hand of Death. The reality is that all of us will end up in the cemetery, and unless the Lord returns, we will be changed (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52). Knowing that Death lies before us, we must prepare for that day.

The Lord is clear that we have a soul that is immortal. When the body of flesh is cast off, the soul will continue into eternity. We must be prepared!

“Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

“Without faith it is impossible to please God, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6

“I tell you no, but except you repent, you shall perish.” Luke 13:3

“With the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:10

“He that believes and is baptized will be saved.” Mark 16:16

I know how my story ends…and I look forward to that end!

“Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:13

By: Justin Odom