No Fear Of Death

No Fear Of Death

Abraham lived a hundred and seventy-five years.

Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people.

Genesis 25:7–8

This passage teaches us that the death of one of God’s people is a dignified event and precious in God’s sight. These departing souls don’t suffer in the same way unbelievers do. Instead, they pass away calmly.

The world hates God’s people, looks down on them, and rejects them. Although their deaths appear to be sad, depressing events to the world, in reality, believers give up this life as if they were slipping into a restful, gentle sleep. When they lie down to die, death descends on their minds and bodies like a liberating slumber. The trials of life have taught them to be humble and peaceful. Death doesn’t terrify them. They’re able to say, “My Lord and my God, I am ready to die if that’s what seems best to you.” But unbelievers are full of panic and anxiety at even the thought of their impending deaths.

This should be a lesson to us. It should encourage us to surrender to God when he calls us out of this miserable existence. We should freely declare, “I don’t wish to live a moment longer than what you intend for me. Lord Jesus, you may come for me whenever you want.” Abraham, the man of God, died at a very old age, having lived a full and satisfying life. But where did Abraham go?Moses tells us, “He was gathered to his people.” Do people still exist after this life? This passage makes it sound as though Abraham migrated from one group of people to another, from one place to another. This passage is outstanding evidence of the resurrection and eternal life.