Psalm 116:15

New King James Version

Precious in the sight of the Lord Is the death of His saints.

For Encouragement

The old man sat up in his sickbed with sensors running all over his body, monitoring his vital signs. He cleared his throat as he talked with his four children surrounding him. He spoke candidly and with great optimism in his eyes.

He had known a lot of years and what he characterized as a blessed life in Christ, but now, his body old and torn, nothing stirs desire anymore. The Oldman reviewed his illustrious life with honesty. He was fearless, declaring his readiness to go to be with the Lord. His body would return to the ground from which it came, and his spirit to Almighty God, who gave it. Then, he would be no more with them (Ecclesiastes 12:2-7).

He had no regrets and didn’t intend to fight the cancer. Did everything seem meaningless to him like they did for the Teacher in Ecclesiastes? The old man smiled confidently, insisting, No.

His advice for the children?

“It is the reason I have called you all here today. You know all about my life. I have kept nothing in my life from you. You know my past, how God’s grace and Christ transformed my life from terrible to redeemed. My post-conversion life has been my finest years, and I wouldn’t exchange them for anything. Christ is everything I have; all I can offer to you. Please make sure none of you deny Him. Insist on living for Him every day. I am looking forward to meeting my Savior and receiving the crown of righteousness on the day of the Lord.  (2 Tim. 4:7-8). I want to see you all in heaven, and you should make sure you bring along your children and your children’s children I will never see here on earth.”

The Lord’s soldier drew his legs and passed away. His stiff body wore the same smile. He was at peace, as heaven welcomed its child.

Tearless, the children held hands, grateful to the Lord for their life with dad. They embraced as the nurses came to prepare their father’s remains for the mortuary.

What a way to go!

It’s the joy of the child of God who enjoys their earthly life in Christ Jesus. Even in great pain, they pass on with contentment and a smile. The Psalmist was right, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful servants (Psalm 116:15).

Are you prepared to go that way?

Prayer

Our Father in heaven. Thank you for Your Son Jesus Christ whose life we live by the power of the Holy Spirit. Lord, help us to live it well and contented and to blissfully pass on to you when you call us home. Amen