Philippians 1:21 says, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

” From the life testimony of

the Apostle Paul, we can learn two truths which I believe should comfort us in this trying time.

1. To Die is Gain
Paul speaks of the fact that because Jesus Christ was his Savior, he knew that the life that
awaited him was far better than anything he could know on earth. In the same way, we need to
understand that because of this one’s faith in Christ, they are in a better place than we are
today. They have experienced the fulfilment of the promise Jesus makes to all who believe on
Him in John 14:1-3.

Yes, they have gone to heaven, which is a better place than where you and I are, because
heaven is a place of:
A. Rest (Revelation 14:13)
Life in this world is full of difficulty, but in heaven, the days of difficulty are gone.

B. Reward (Revelation 14:13)

While, too often in this life, good things done are overlooked, God takes notice. And there, in
heaven, everything worthy of commendation will be rewarded! Rest assured that this one who
has passed into the presence of Jesus is receiving their reward. I imagine that it just might be
like the song describes it...

One by one they came, far as the eye could see;

Each life somehow touched by your generosity.
Little things that you had done, sacrifices made,
Unnoticed on the earth, In heaven now proclaimed.
And I know that up in heaven you’re not supposed to cry,
But I am almost sure there were tears in your eyes
As Jesus took your hand and you stood before the Lord;
He said, "My child, look around you, great is your reward!"

Yes, rest assured this one who is heaven is receiving their reward, as they are made aware of
how many lives they touched. And as more of us join them, they will be rewarded with even
more "thank-you’s."

C. Rejoicing - Ecclesiastes 4:2

They have gone to the place Jesus spoke of when He said, "In my Father’s house are many
mansions. I go to prepare a place for you!"

As beautiful a description of heaven as we have in the Bible, the reality of its beauty will far
surpass anything we read about in Scripture, because what we read in the Bible about heaven
is but an accommodation to our level of understanding. It is God’s attempt to describe for us the
indescribable.

Just think
Of stepping on shore and finding it heaven;
Of taking hold of a hand and finding it God’s hand;
Of breathing in new air and finding it heavenly air;
Of feeling invigorated and finding it immortality;
Of waking up and finding - you’re home!
That’s what’s happened to this one who has passed on!
Yet their joy is even greater than we could ever imagine (Ephesians 3:20a)!

D. Reunion
Your loved one is now part of the greatest "family reunion" of all! They have joined the family of
God around the throne! And, there, they are waiting for you to join them (2 Samuel 12:23)

2. "To Live Is Christ"

"How can I go on?" Is a common question, in light of experiencing a tragedy such as this. Paul
gives us the answer. The answer is Jesus Christ. By the power of the One Who is present with
us, we can carry on!
Because:
A. He Gives Us Help In The Midst Of Difficulty -2 Corinthians 4:8-9; 16-18
Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come.
Tis grace that hath brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home!
B. He Gives Us Hope In The Midst Of Difficulty -1 Thessalonians 4:13; Titus 2:13
There is coming a day when no heartaches shall come;
No more clouds in the sky, no more tears to dim the eye;
All is peace for evermore on that happy, golden shore!
What a day, glorious day, that will be!
There’ll be no sorrow there, no more burdens to bear,
No more sickness, no pain, no more parting over there;
And forever I will be with the One Who died for me;
And what a day, glorious day, that will be!

Conclusion:
Let us carry on, then! For if it were possible for your loved one to address you on this occasion, I
believe they might say
When I must leave you for a little while -
Please do not grieve and shed wild tears
And hug your sorrow to you through the years,
But start out bravely with a gallant smile.