Losing a loved one can be tough, and it usually brings various challenges with it. But as tough as those times can be, Scripture promises us a way through. No matter what challenges we face, we can overcome them because we are in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 2:14).

One thing that brings encouragement in those times is the assurance that when a loved one who knew Jesus goes to be with the Lord, the Bible offers us hope for the future. We may have a temporary sorrow, but nothing like that of those who have no hope, or who are burdened with guilt.

And there’s another encouragement we have. In the Word of God, we are promised that when Jesus returns, those who are alive at His coming and those who have fallen asleep will all be brought together to live with Him in eternity.

The loved one who has gone to be with Jesus has just gone away for a while. We will see them again. To have the peace and comfort the Holy Spirit provides, we are to look at this situation through the eyes of eternity (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 Corinthians 15; 2 Corinthians 5).

Don’t forget: God loves us and cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). He has a calling for us to fulfill in this life. When we allow unnatural grief or guilt to overwhelm us, we are robbed of God’s best for us.

The loved ones who have gone to heaven immediately experience the glory of God and join all of the other saints in heaven encouraging us on (Hebrews 12:1-2). We need to receive that encouragement, finish our course and do all to fulfill our calling. Soon we will all be together with the Lord.