Widowhood- About Heaven...

[domoore]

To my Sisters in Widowhood...

About Heaven…

Since we believe our husbands are in “Heaven,” what do we actually know about this place? Or rather, maybe a more appropriate question is this: What do we believe? I pose this question in this way- because in reality- none of us have died! Right!? And so, our thoughts naturally drift to our dear husbands and we begin to wonder—“Where is he?” “What could he be doing?” And some even wonder, “Why doesn’t he come to me in spirit form?” or maybe “I hope he doesn’t come to me as a spirit—that might scare me.” “Is he near?” “Does he see me?” “Am I still married to him?” And we all ask these questions- to varying degrees and at differing times.

For the most part, we all believe that those whom we love are in Heaven after they die.

But after that, we think all kinds of things. Some believe that their loved ones become angels upon death. Some believe that we “re-incarnate” to other forms or as “new” people. Some think that our spirits are “energy” which floats freely and can come and go at will. Some believe that once we die—there is nothing remaining- there is a void and we are gone forever.

As we begin to think on all these “ideas” it is easy to become disillusioned about the whole thing. In this day and age, it is certainly easy enough to investigate the subject of “life after death” or “Heaven.” But with so many conflicting theories and ideas- how can we know for sure which one is right? Do we just look at the best 3 options based on our opinions and play “Enie, Menie, Miney, Moe?” Some think that there are “many” ways to Heaven. But logic wins out—and we reason within our selves- that conflicting ideas can not coexist in such a way as to lead to the same place. And so- as we study this subject—what can be said?

Something inside each of us- longs for more. We yearn for more than this life has to offer. We desire to continue on—but on to what? Another life? To return as insects or birds or butterflies? Good heavens- I should think not! I do not wish for my life to be reduced to a continuation of this- my “life energies” spiraling into blissful nothingness. There is more! There is a Creator- Almighty God- and He longs for each of us to know Him personally.

Let me speak plainly. Death is final. After death-- comes the judgment—no turning back. I would add that if my husband showed up as a butterfly on my doorstep—Well- I just imagine what he would think of that- not much- I can assure you!! And IF he could come back as a butterfly—would he consciencly remember me? Would he purposely fly down to meet me? Good Grief! No! (I think he would be too embarassed by being a butterfly to do that!) And then- what of all the poor butterfly’s that have been stuck to my windshield and front bumper on my van? Shall we start a “save the woolly worm and butterfly” campaign? Or perhaps they are men who “re-incarnated” into butterflies- and paid the ultimate sacrafice by throwing their flimsy selves upon my oncoming mini van. Now, let me say this—I do not want to insult anyone regarding their personal beliefs and convictions. But I do hope to get you to thinking. You must be very careful of what you believe and what you listen to. There are all sorts of “romanticized notions” of what happens after death.

Turn the television on—and in any given evening- you will meet with the death of a character- and ghosts- and socorercy—and on and on it goes… even the commercials are laced with psychics who promise to “give you answers.” (Remember the movie “Ghost?” with Demi Moore?—Here is another example of what people “think” happens after death.) But answers can not be found in man. And certainly not in those whose primary means of income come from “fortune telling.” Hello? That is obviously a conflict of interest.

And while I am speaking plainly- lets discuss “Talk shows.” Television Talk shows are about making money. Money for talk shows comes in the form of viewer ratings. The Producers of talk shows look for people who will “tickle” ears and increase the viewers and in turn eventually increase profits. The bottom line is not to “re-connect you” with a loved one—or to look for signs of their “safe passage.” Rather, the bottom line is to increase profits- what better way to do so than to prey on desperate people who have lost loved ones. So enough on this—Just be careful- be aware- be thinking for yourself. Study for yourself- but be very careful of who and what you chose to listen to. Know this- there are all kinds of ideas and notions about life after death—and there can only be ONE way that is right.

Heaven is a real place. And if our husbands have died- most of us believe that they have gone to “Heaven.”

Let me share what God says about Heaven. You see, God created the “heavens and the earth.” God created the sky, the sun, the moon and the stars. The Lord created the plants on the land. God took great care in creating the animals of the land, air and seas. And then, God created man- in His own image- breathing the “breath of life” into us. Man is the only creation that has a living “soul.” God created us for His pleasure- and He said it was “good.” We are a living soul- and will live on forever- after our physical bodies die. Our “energies” do not move into another form or shape. But our soul does continue on. And we each have a destination assigned to us- based on our own choosing.

And so, with this groundwork in place, let’s build on what’s been established.

If we believe our husband’s are in “Heaven” then we must learn what God says about Heaven. We can know this by studying what God’s word, the Bible, tells us.

The Bible has several things to offer to us in regard to Heaven.

The first thing you have to "nail down" before you begin such a study is whether or not you believe the Bible is God's Inerrant Word. I do- I believe the Bible is absolute truth- it is without fault or blemish or even contradiction- It is God's Word to us. With that foundation in place- we can take anything to it for comparison and for answers. It is through this lens that all my questions and philosophies must pass. As I read what others write or share- no matter the forum or meeting place, even the pastor in the pulpit- I take it to God's word and discern if it is truth or falsehood. 2 Timothy 2:15 "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." Please measure what I share- measure against God's word... I will not be offended in the least- It is our responsibility to do this!

First of all, I would like to share what our husbands are NOT doing...

*Many people believe that their husband is sitting on their shoulders watching over them. The Bible tells us that "the cares of this world are no more..." If things were reversed (I was deceased and my husband remained) and I had to sit on my husband's shoulders while he lived out his life- It would be far from heaven for me! Your husband is not following you around or offering you advice or helping with decision making. The Bible tells us that the cares or concerns of this world are no longer ours. Furthermore, God warns us to NOT go looking for or talking to the "spirits" of the deceased. He warns us of this- it is very dangerous and can open up a whole host of other demonic problems. Okay- so I am back on this subject—but I just have to make sure everyone understands this.

At the beginning of 2007, a very popular TV personality hosted a talk show in which she had a “spiritual medium” discuss dreams and contacting the dead. This is very dangerous. We lived in Texas for several years- in two large metropolitan areas. Psychics and spiritual mediums were on nearly every corner. I realize that there is a great temptation to “look into” this kind of thing. But be warned. This is very dangerous stuff. God— who by the way is the ONLY keeper to the gates of Heaven and Hell-- clearly commands in Scripture to NOT do this sort of thing. You see, these so-called “spiritual mediums” are definitely “dabbling” in the spirit world—but not the one they say/or think they are. They are involved in occultic practices. This is VERY dangerous stuff- and can open your heart and home up to some terrible spiritual warfare and bondage. I can not say enough to warn you against such devices. Once our loved ones are gone from us—they do not sit on our shoulders guiding us—or watching us—or protecting us.

*In this same line of thinking, some believe their husbands “visit” them in their dreams at night. There are many books related to the interpretation of dreams. Again- your focus on such things is not on seeking God- but rather on seeking the dead. I have had dreams about my husband- but I recognize them as my sub-conscience mind trying to process all that has happened—and nothing else! My husband is not sneaking into my head at night to play mental games with me. There is a barrier between the living and the dead- and it is not crossed.

*Some suggest we become angels when we die- NOPE- God created us in His image- Man is the ONLY creation which is made in God’s image. The Bible tells us that man was created just a little lower than the angels were. The angels were created with specific purposes in mind- and are without gender- neither male nor female. Christ came to earth to die for the sins of man- not of angels- Therefore, Hell was created for Satan and his demonic angels- It is a devil's hell- not intended for man- but all men who reject Christ will be sent to spend eternity in Hell. We do not become angels when we die. Of course, the media and cartoons have perpetuated this notion. How often have you seen a cartoon character die—only to be seen in the next scene floating on a cloud, halo on their head, wings on their back and playing a harp? Our soul continues on after death—but not as an angel.

Here are some truths I know from God's Holy Word:

*Heaven is a real place.
*We are not married or given in marriage in Heaven- (because we will be "like" the angels- genderless – by the way- this Scripture is the one taken out of context when people erroneously think their loved one ‘becomes an angel.’) Matt. 22:30 This is kind of a bummer- especially if you had a good time procreating!-- But there will be no need for that in Heaven... I just imagine it will be so much better than the best we have here on earth that it won't matter- Unfortunately my finite mind can not comprehend this! This is why marriage is until “death do us part.” God's blessing in marriage ends when death separates us. The marriage covenant (promise/binding contract) ends at death- because one of the two parties can no longer continue their end of the commitment. Because our husbands have died- the contract is fulfilled- it is completed at the time of death.

*We will recognize one another when we get to Heaven! (1 Corinthians 13:12) In that recognizing- I believe our mates will be more special to us than others we might know on the streets of glory- but that is my opinion- and one that is definitely biased in my human nature and tendencies!

*Until Christ returns, those who have died are asleep- with Christ. What does that mean? 2 Corinthians 5:6-8. Their bodies slumber (physical death) but their spirit is united with Christ. To be absent from the body (dead) is to be present with the Lord (spirit/soul). Their spirit awaits the resurrection of their glorified body- 1 Corinthians 15:35-58. Actually all of chapter 15 is good- Paul is the author of Corinthians- and here he is addressing questions about death. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17- is a good passage.

*Another thought related to this is: Our loved ones are no longer bound by time as we are. In Heaven- time is not necessary. When we arrive in Heaven, it will be as if we have always been there. Though we might be separated by death and outlive our dear husbands for 10, 20 or even 50 years—when we get to Heaven—it will be in the “twinkling of an eye.” To our loved ones- it will be as though we were never apart.

*We will have glorified bodies. (This will happen at the end of times- after we are physically resurrected.) Most theologians believe that our scars will be gone- and our wrinkles and stretch marks- and all those things that make us unlovely. The Bible says we will have glorified bodies like Christ's. I believe our resurrected bodies will do what His did after He was resurrected. John 20 and 21 as well as Acts 1 describes Jesus walking through solid objects and appearing suddenly- disappearing suddenly- and yet having physical qualities- Thomas touching Christ. Jesus eating and sharing a meal with His disciples. The Bible tells us to care for our bodies- not to mark them (tattoos) or pierce them.

In closing, someone posted the comment “there is a reason for everything that happens to you.” I believe this- and would in no way limit what God can do and does do to get our attention. God loves you so much- and He works in mysterious- miraculous ways to get our attention.

Most of my letter has been pointed toward our dear husbands- and Heaven—but I want to shift the focus now from the creation to the Creator. Many believe and worship all kinds of ‘gods’—the sun, moon and trees- just to name a few—but miss the one Who Created it all.

In my own limited experience with death, I have noticed one of two things happen to the surviving spouse. They are either drawn to God. Or they reject God and largely remove themselves as far away as possible from the One who can bringing healing and comfort and love.

You see, we each have a day appointed for our death. God knows that day and that hour. Even in the case where we might end our own life- God knows it. He holds that time reserved for us. And by our own experience with death- we know this is true. We can not possibly know the day or hour that death will come for us. But we can be prepared. We can know for certain that our hope and eternity are secure- and we can know this with out doubt or fear.

What will you do? You see, God offers salvation freely to all. But the Bible tells us that wide is the way that leads to destruction- and narrow is the path of salvation- and few are that find it. Today is the day of salvation. We each must decide for ourselves to either accept or reject Christ’s atoning work. God will honor our choice and upon our death- we will be locked into our decision. What I have shared will sound like nonsense and be disturbing to those who are not saved. But for those who have that personal relationship with Christ- it will be sweeter than honey. So what will you decide? I am earnestly praying for you.

copyrighted

[dc4evr]

. . . . .In closing, someone posted the comment “there is a reason for everything that happens to you.” I believe this- and would in no way limit what God can do and does do to get our attention. God loves you so much- and He works in mysterious- miraculous ways to get our attention.

Julia I was thinking before I read this that maybe God is using the last past two years for His Glory in you. I can’t put down what you write. It is real and honestly it makes me think and I know I am a Christian. What I mean is it makes me think about what I really believe about GOD and Heaven. I don’t think for one moment that this would be any comfort to you in your lose. But, I do believe that the truth does set us free from what we believe to be lose and sets our focus on the here and now. Forgiveness is another one of those areas of being set free. That is a lose that we all desire and look forward to each moment of our lives; or do we?
I am not sure but I think a key factor in lose is our ability (GOD GIVEN) to accept change as He has given the GRACE which enables us to experience His will for our lives better put, it then would become as is His purpose HIS Life our life.
Keep the verses coming God is so pleased when HIS word is validated in our lives.
Ge 15:1 After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.
Ps 33:4 For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.
Pr 16:20 ¶ He that handles a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.
With much love as only He can give, Oh Praise the Name of the LORD!
Christie

[jbndenver]

From what I read, when someone dies and they believe or don't believe.
on my web site read promises kept http://atomgift.googlepages.com/home

they go to a place called paradise, where there souls are over flowing with love.
they say there until the second coming of Christ. at that time the heavens and earth are rebuilt by God. each person is Judged and given back there body to the age of 33. at that time if they are judged worthy they return to heaven/Earth and live forever. Im pretty sure thats the way its written.. any ideas?

[domoore]

Taken from www.lwf.org

BIBLE MEDITATION:
“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:
A man named Solomon Peas died. His tombstone in London reads: “Beneath these clouds and beneath these trees lies the body of Solomon Peas. But this ain’t Peas - it’s just the pod. Peas shelled out and went to God.” I like that. That’s what your body is. It’s just a pod. What happens to a child of God who has trusted Christ as his personal Savior? When he closes his eyes in this life, he opens them in the next. Jesus did not say, “After two or three thousand years, you’ll be with Me in paradise.” Jesus said, “Today, truly, you’ll be with Me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).

ACTION POINT:
Are you confident that if you died today that you’d be with Jesus in paradise? If not, then confess your sins and believe upon His name to save you. Now, go and tell someone!


Dear Jbndenver,

I have given your post some prayerful thought and consideration... and am still studying what you have shared...
But-- I have had nothing that even remotely supports your supposition.
If you are "pretty certain" that this is the way it is "written"- then please share from where you are basing these thoughts. Is this from the Bible? Where did you find it?

It is so important to study these things for yourself- and not to just "listen" to what other people say or believe about these things. There are many supposed Bible "teachers" sharing their own beliefs- but there are many that are wrong, wrong, wrong. You must be careful of who and what you listen to. This is why you yourself must test all things through the Scriptures before you buy into it. You must be willing to dig into the Scriptures on your own- and spend time there with the Lord- praying, asking, seeking, and memorizing. This takes a certain amount of self discipline and work- but we are told be "workers rightly dividing" the truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 As believers- God holds us accountable to do this.

I am eager to learn where you are getting this information from Scriptures. I have never run across any such information in my studies.

AS to the above devotional- Paradise is mentioned-- but thinking to when Christ was on the cross- with the two thieves beside Him-- Jesus said, “Today, truly, you’ll be with Me in paradise” (Luke 23:43) Christ was only speaking to the ONE who believed. He did NOT tell the other- unbelieving man-- that he was going to paradise. Two thieves-- One went to paradise- the other did not.

Hebrews 9:27 says "And it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment."

I can not also help but think of the Rich man and Lazarus. Jesus told this story- There are many theologians who believe it is NOT considered a parable-- but rather- a real event. Either way- you can be sure-- there is a point to the story of the rich man and Lazarus.

You can read of the account in Luke 16:19-31. Please take a minute to read this passage- and I will expound on it further.

Luke 16:22-23 shows that believers know their fate immediately upon death.

Luke 16:24 shows that the rich man suffered greatly- a real and physical suffering- even though his body was no longer alive. He was consciously aware of what was happening to him.

Luke 16:26 speaks of the "great gulf" fixed between the righteous and the unrighteous- once they have died- they can not move about and go elsewhere. But I also believe that part of the torture of hell- is to know what you have missed. Therefore- the rich man can actually see Lazarus at Abraham's bosom. Also- please note-- while on earth- the beggar Lazarus- was not known by his name-- but only as a beggar. Because Lazarus was saved--his name was "recorded"--- The rich man was surely known through out the area- I am sure his fame was well known- but when he died- he was nameless- thought of no more.

Luke 16:27-28 I love this passage-- because it shows that the love we have for our family crosses the threshold of death. Some theologians debate the sincerity of the rich man in his request to see his brothers saved- or if he was snidely commenting that he hadn't received enough warning of judgment. Either way- it is interesting to note the next few verses-

Luke 16:29-31 --and especially verse 31 where Abraham shares with the rich man that even if One (Jesus Christ) was resurrected from the dead- they would still not believe.


These are things we can know for sure from Scripture. As to our "resurrected age"- I have found nothing which would support one age over another. (Jesus was 33-- but I have never found anything that says we will be 33.) And what of infants and children? Remember David and Bathsheeba’s infant son— 2 Samuel 18-23. (By the way, this passage also supports the idea that the dead do not return to the living.) So, no- I can not find any thing to support the idea that we are given our 33 year old glorified bodies.

I do know we will "recognize" one another- but beyond that-- is it really necessary to wonder or speculate? There are some things that we simply will not know about until we die. We aren't meant to know these things.

I pray that this letter be received as it is intended- with the utmost humility and respect-

Blessings,
domoore