Conquering DeathSample

Finding Hope in the Face of Fear

Research has shown that among the common fears of death are the fear of dying in pain, the fear of being a burden to others, and the fear of dying alone. At some point many people approaching death also wonder about what lies beyond death for them. Is God only an idea we use to falsely reassure ourselves, or is God the one true hope during and beyond our dying? Our ancestors also struggled with these questions. Here are Scripture passages that express their faith and their hope.

Readings from the Old Testament

Many of the psalms express the hope that can be found in God alone.

Psalm 33:20-22

Psalm 34:17-18

Psalm 43:5

Psalm 71:5, 14-16

Psalm 119:114, 117a

Like the people of ancient Israel, put your hope in the Lord God.

Isaiah 33:2

Hope returns when I remember this one thing:

Lamentations 3:21-25

Readings from the New Testament

Jesus traveled to Bethany after hearing the news that his friend, Lazarus, had died. Jesus reveals God’s glory by restoring Lazarus to life. Place your hope in Jesus, who is the Resurrection and the Life.

John 11:17-27, 32-44

When Jesus was put to death on a cross, two criminals were also crucified along with him. One of the criminals turned to Jesus in faith and received Jesus’s promise of entering into Paradise with him.

Luke 23:32-33, 39-43

Jesus offers us hope by means of the peace that only He can give.

John 14:27

The apostle Paul speaks of the hope we have in Christ Jesus and in being reconciled to God.

Romans 5:1-5, 8-11

Romans 14:7-9

In a letter to Titus, Paul’s friend and co-worker in the Gospel, Paul speaks of the hope of eternal life through our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Titus 1:1-3

Titus 3:4-8a

The author of 1 Peter speaks of the “living hope” and new life we have because God raised Jesus from death.

1 Peter 1:3-6, 8b, 9

Claim the hope that comes from God.

Romans 15:13

Thoughts for Reflection

1. In what or in whom do I place my hope?
2. What is it that I hope for?
3. What could I do or think that would increase my hope?
4. Am I able to place my hope in a power greater than myself?

Prayer

Good and Gracious God, you have been the source of hope for all generations. Before the mountains and the seas were established, you were there. After all have fallen away, you will remain.

Deepen my trust in your eternal care for me and those I love. Abide with me in my living, in my dying, and in my life to come. Give me the comfort of knowing I am yours now and forevermore. Amen.

A Blessing for You

May the LORD bless you and take care of you;
May the LORD be kind and gracious to you;
May the LORD look on you with favor and give you peace.
Numbers 6.24-26

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