Reading With the People of God - #4 ComfortНамуна

In Life and in Death

"...in life and in death..."

Our belonging to Jesus is not limited to this life; it extends into eternity. This eternal perspective brings hope and assurance, especially in times of trial or uncertainty. Paul writes in Romans 14:8, "If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord."

This truth provides comfort and courage. In life, we have the assurance of His presence and guidance. In death, we have the promise of eternal life with Him. Knowing that we belong to Jesus in both realms allows us to face challenges with faith and to live boldly for Him.

Reflect on how this eternal perspective influences your daily life. How does it shape your priorities and responses to difficulties?

Spend time in prayer, thanking Jesus for the assurance of belonging to Him both now and forever. Ask Him to help you live with an eternal perspective, finding peace and purpose in His promises.

Today's prayer of illumination:

Lord, open our hearts to the eternal truth that we belong to You, in life and in death. Help us live with this perspective, finding courage and comfort in Your promises. Guide our priorities and responses to reflect our eternal hope in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Memorization Challenge of the Month:

Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 1

Q1. What is your only comfort in life and in death?

A1. That I am not my own, but belong— body and soul, in life and in death— to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.

He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil. He also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven; in fact, all things must work together for my salvation.

Because I belong to him, Christ, by his Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for him.