Why Did They Die So Young?
Michael Edwards
The last enemy to be destroyed is death. 1 Cor 15:26 NIV - God, Death, Romans 8:28
We know that death is one of God's enemies.
We also know that scripture tells us that God uses all things for the good of those who trust in Christ
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Rom 8:28 NIV
How does God use death for the believer's good?
The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk uprightly enter into peace - Isaiah 57:1-2a NIV
Look around this fallen world, evil is apparent. Like me, maybe you are ready to leave and go home or have prayed for Jesus' imminent return. All in a desire to escape evil and embrace our Savior.
It is encouraging for us to embrace the truth that God uses death to spare those righteous in Christ from having to endure more of the evil in this world as He leads them into His eternal peace. It is good to remember this when dealing with the death of any believer. It is especially helpful when mourning the untimely deaths of those we love and those put to death around the world for their faith. In all reality, it is truly a celebration for them.
For a Christ-follower, falling asleep to this life separates our born-again spirit from our body of death, as Paul calls it. There is no way around it; it is the portal to completing our redemption and freedom from all evil. There will be no more sin, death, pain, suffering, tears, and a new glorious body that will never grow old when we get home.
While we are still here, let's use our time wisely to do the best we can to spread the gospel and love others as Jesus loves us, giving them every opportunity to trust Jesus before they leave this world. Please don't give up on them.