Permanent Comfort From Earth's New King

The one whom aged Anna rejoiced to see some two thousand years ago has now become the Messianic King of God's heavenly Kingdom.  This government will soon eliminate all causes for sorrow, including death.  In this regard, Revelation 21:3, 4 says:  "Look! the tent of God is with mankind . . . And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.  The former things have passed away."   Did you notice that this passage refers to "mankind"?  Yes, humans will be liberated from death and all the mourning and outcry it brings.

But there is even more good news!  The Bible also promises a resurrection for the dead.  "The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his [Jesus'] voice and come out."  (John 5:28, 29)  Just like Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead, hey will come out as humans, not spirit creatures.  (John 11:43, 44)  (no, they won't be eating and killing anyone like the movies!) Those who thereafter 'do good things' will be brought to human perfection and personally experience Jehovah's fatherly care as he  'opens his and and satisfies the desire of every living thing.' -Psalm 145:16.

Those who have lost a loved one is death and who put faith in this sure hope find it a source of great comfort.  (1 Thessalonians 4:13)  So if you are a widow, be sure to "pray incessantly" for the comfort and help you need daily to carry your various burdens.  (1 Thessalonians 5:17; 1 Peter 5:7)  And take the time each day to read God's Word so that God's thoughts can comfort you.  If you do these things, you will see for yourself how, in spite of all the trials and challenges, you face as a widow, Jehovah can truly help you to find peace.

Next time: BE JOYFUL WITH THE HAPPY GOD

The Watchtower, 2001