By Pastor Clint Perkins
Recently, I delivered a eulogy at the funeral of a mother and her unborn son. During such a heartbreaking occasion, God still revealed His mighty power.
There were tears, which are natural and expected. But there was also laughter and moments of joy. What many would consider an unbearable tragedy was made more bearable by the assurance that both the mother and her child are in heaven.
How can we be confident in this? The mother was steadfast in her faith and her salvation, as described in Romans 10:9-10, 13. Through her profession of faith, we believe she is in heaven.
But what about the baby? While there are questions we may never fully answer, Scripture provides reassurance that children are received into heaven.
Here are three reasons:
- The character of God: Psalm 145:8-9 reminds us that the Lord is gracious, compassionate, slow to anger and rich in mercy. A compassionate God would not condemn an innocent child.
- The condition of salvation: Salvation requires acknowledging sin, believing in Christ’s death and resurrection, and confessing Him as Lord (Romans 10:9-10, 13). A baby is not capable of making that decision and therefore is not held accountable. God does not hold individuals responsible for what they cannot comprehend.
- The biblical example of David’s child: In 2 Samuel 12:23, David says, “I will go to him, but he will not return to me,” expressing confidence that he would one day be reunited with his child.
Psalm 16:11 tells us there is joy in the presence of the Lord. So even in the most difficult moments, when we grieve those we have lost, we can hold on to this truth: God is still good.
Until next time:
Be intentional about your salvation.
Pray for families who have lost loved ones.
