When We Die, Do We Go Immediately to Heaven?

Q: When we die, do we go immediately to Heaven, or do we have to wait until the world comes to an end? My cousin (who was a strong believer) died a few months ago, and her death got me thinking about this. Is she already in Heaven? — Mrs. B.McK.

A: Although Christians sometimes disagree on the details, my own study of the Bible has convinced me that when a believer dies, he or she enters immediately into God’s presence. No evil can touch them, and they are secure and at peace forever.

I think, for example, of the Apostle Paul. He knew his life was in constant danger from those who opposed the Gospel. And yet he didn’t shrink back from death or try to flee from those who might kill him — because he knew Heaven is real, and if he died he would be in the presence of his Savior forever. Once while in prison he wrote, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. … I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far” (Philippians 1:21, 23).

Take comfort in God’s promise that death is not the end, but ahead of us is Heaven if we belong to Christ. We were not meant for this world alone, and by His death and resurrection Christ removed the one barrier that separates us from eternal life — the barrier of our sins.

Christ’s promise is for you, and for all (including your cousin) who put their faith and trust in Him. He declared, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die” (John 11:25). Make sure of your own commitment to Jesus Christ — and then thank Him that your cousin is safely in His presence forever.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.