2 Corinthians 5:6-8
So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. For we live by believing and not by seeing. Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord.

What happens when you die? The soul sleeps? Time is spent in a holding place? Purgatory? Nothing? No, no, no, and absolutely no! The Bible is clear that when believers die, they pass from death to life in heaven. As Paul wrote in today’s passage, when we are away from the body, we are at home with the Lord.

This truth was proven right from the cross. As Jesus hung on the cross, two thieves were dying on either side of him. One remained defiant until death, but the other said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:42-43). Jesus had told his disciples that when he died, he was going to the Father (John16:10). Now Jesus told the repentant thief that he would go to the Father with him.

The soul is that part of us that makes us who we are. It’s our character, passions, desires, commitments, values, will, and emotions. Our souls are housed, for the time being, in our bodies; but you know all about that sad story. Our bodies break, wear down, and eventually wear out, but not our souls! Our souls fly from our bodies to the arms of Jesus. He says, “Time to go home!” When we leave the body, we are at home with the Lord!

Father, thank you that death is the beginning not the end. Thank you that our home is with you forever. Thank you for the gift of grace through Jesus that provides the path for our journey home. In his name we thank you. Amen.

Additional Resources

Purchase the entire book of Refuge Devotions here: REFUGE DEVOTIONAL BOOK