God doesn’t want us to be morbid or constantly burdened with thoughts of death. He gave our lives to us, and until the moment He calls us home to heaven, He wants us to rejoice in all His good gifts. The Bible says, “When God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them … this is a gift of God” (Ecclesiastes 5:19).

But don’t misunderstand me; this doesn’t mean we ought to live only for the moment or ignore the reality of death. Life is short; the older I get, the more I realize just how quickly it passes. But eternity is forever – and now is the time to prepare for it. This is why the most important decision any person will ever make is their decision for Christ. He came into the world to save us from our sins and open heaven’s door for us, and life’s greatest joy comes from knowing Him.

Thank God for the good gifts He gives you, including your family and friends. But thank Him most of all for Jesus Christ, and for the fact that you are now part of His family forever. Because you know Him, you don’t need to fear death.

Then ask God to help you to be an example of Christ’s love to those around you. What will your family remember about you when you are gone? May they remember not only your love for them, but your faith and hope and love for Christ.