A Mother in Hell, a Child in Paradise: Finding Understanding

[Yurii]

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

I have a question that has been causing me some reflection, and I would appreciate hearing your thoughts and understanding on it.

We believe that children who pass away go to the Kingdom of Heaven. Let's imagine a situation where a child, say the tenth in a family, dies and their soul goes to paradise. At the same time, their mother did not live a righteous life and, according to God's justice, might end up in hell.

In such a case, how can the child's soul have peace and joy in heaven, knowing that their mother is suffering eternal torment? Wouldn't their heart be filled with pain and anxiety for their dearest loved one?

I would be very grateful for your thoughts, biblical justifications, and understanding of this complex question.

Thank you for your time and wisdom.

Sincerely,
Yurii

 

[Marilyn C]

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

I have a question that has been causing me some reflection, and I would appreciate hearing your thoughts and understanding on it.

We believe that children who pass away go to the Kingdom of Heaven. Let's imagine a situation where a child, say the tenth in a family, dies and their soul goes to paradise. At the same time, their mother did not live a righteous life and, according to God's justice, might end up in hell.

In such a case, how can the child's soul have peace and joy in heaven, knowing that their mother is suffering eternal torment? Wouldn't their heart be filled with pain and anxiety for their dearest loved one?

I would be very grateful for your thoughts, biblical justifications, and understanding of this complex question.

Thank you for your time and wisdom.

Sincerely,
Yurii

Hi Yurii,

I can quite understand your concern. It seems you have a very compassionate heart. Now in God`s word it says -

`we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.` (3 John 3: 2)

And that means we are not of our human flesh, but a spiritual being.(1 Cor. 15: 44) All of this earthly life, its relationships, its carnal activities, its memories will all be gone. Otherwise, as you say we would have sorrow and suffering. But that is no more -

`And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying; and there shall be no more pain, FOR THE FORMER THINGS HAVE PASSED AWAY.` (Rev. 21: 4)

 

[Yurii]

Hi Yurii,

I can quite understand your concern. It seems you have a very compassionate heart. Now in God`s word it says -

`we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.` (3 John 3: 2)

And that means we are not of our human flesh, but a spiritual being.(1 Cor. 15: 44) All of this earthly life, its relationships, its carnal activities, its memories will all be gone. Otherwise, as you say we would have sorrow and suffering. But that is no more -

`And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying; and there shall be no more pain, FOR THE FORMER THINGS HAVE PASSED AWAY.` (Rev. 21: 4)

Hello Marilyn C.,

Thank you very much for your response and for these important biblical verses. Your words about us being spiritual beings in the Kingdom of Heaven and that the former things will pass away offer great hope and comfort.

Reflecting on these passages from 1 Corinthians 15:44 and Revelation 21:4 truly helps to look at this question from a new perspective. The belief that God will wipe away every tear and that there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain is incredibly significant.

However, another question arises for me from these reflections: does "the former things have passed away" mean a complete loss of memory of our earthly life, including our relationships and loved ones?

If so, how does this align with the idea that we will retain our individuality in the Kingdom of Heaven? Wouldn't our lived experiences and our memories of those we loved be part of our individuality?

I understand that the main purpose is to avoid any sadness and suffering in God's presence. But is it possible to retain joyful memories of earthly love and affection while being free from the pain associated with loss or separation?

I would be grateful for your further thoughts on this matter.

Sincerely,
Yurii

 

[bobinfaith]

However, another question arises for me from these reflections: does "the former things have passed away" mean a complete loss of memory of our earthly life, including our relationships and loved ones? If so, how does this align with the idea that we will retain our individuality in the Kingdom of Heaven? Wouldn't our lived experiences and our memories of those we loved be part of our individuality? I understand that the main purpose is to avoid any sadness and suffering in God's presence. But is it possible to retain joyful memories of earthly love and affection while being free from the pain associated with loss or separation? I would be grateful for your further thoughts on this matter. Sincerely, Yurii

Good morning, Yurii;

Thank you for bringing this topic up. I have shared this before in the past.

When my wife and I were newlyweds she got pregnant right away. Unfortunately she had a miscarriage at 6 months. At the hospital I was at her beside when they induced the labor. We held our son before they took his body away.

We were in our late 20s, newly married and expecting our first child in 3 more months. This crushed us.

From this side of the world we still miss our child. He would have been 39 years old this year. On the other side we have all the faith he is in spirit form and in God's Hand.

In 2 Samuel 12:23 David expressed hope he would be with his son one day in the afterlife, 23 But now he is dead. Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.” - ESV

In Matthew 19:14 Jesus teaches that little children, or all those who don't understand/grasp the concept of a saving Lord, are protected by God. 14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” - RSV

I have to admit all the Scriptures, theology and theory still fall short with me today regarding our loss. For those who are parents can understand this. At first my wife and I were angry, hurt and at each other. But as time went on we healed and got a grip. The loss of our son brought my wife and me closer together though we never had children again.

No matter what the circumstances are that bring us to God, there is no more pain, suffering, heartache, illness, etc..We know our son has been released of all the pain and our hope is one day we will meet him again.

Does our son miss her and me? Maybe, I don't know. But what matters is he is in the embrace of God and that is a hope that gives us peace.

God bless you, Yurii.

 

[BibleLover]

Hello Marilyn C.,

Thank you very much for your response and for these important biblical verses. Your words about us being spiritual beings in the Kingdom of Heaven and that the former things will pass away offer great hope and comfort.

Reflecting on these passages from 1 Corinthians 15:44 and Revelation 21:4 truly helps to look at this question from a new perspective. The belief that God will wipe away every tear and that there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain is incredibly significant.

However, another question arises for me from these reflections: does "the former things have passed away" mean a complete loss of memory of our earthly life, including our relationships and loved ones?

If so, how does this align with the idea that we will retain our individuality in the Kingdom of Heaven? Wouldn't our lived experiences and our memories of those we loved be part of our individuality?

I understand that the main purpose is to avoid any sadness and suffering in God's presence. But is it possible to retain joyful memories of earthly love and affection while being free from the pain associated with loss or separation?

I would be grateful for your further thoughts on this matter.

Sincerely,
Yurii

Yurii, you're asking questions for which Scripture does not provide any specific answer. The best we can do is speculate based upon what we know about God's character and nature. I guess here is where I confess my ignorance and invoke Romans 8:28 .

Blessings to you, brother.

 

[drequeen]

These verses come to mind:

Isaiah 25:8 "He will swallow up death forever,
And the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces; The rebuke of His people
He will take away from all the earth;
For the Lord has spoken.

1 Cor 2:9 But as it is written:
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

Isaiah 65:17 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.

I think the last verse speaks the loudest. Plus, I think heaven will be so far beyond what we can possibly imagine it will be difficult to remember the former things, even if we tried. However, if we have family and friends that have been "left behind", it's difficult for us in the present to imagine ever being in a state where they're 'forgotten'.

 

[Marilyn C]

Hello Marilyn C.,

Thank you very much for your response and for these important biblical verses. Your words about us being spiritual beings in the Kingdom of Heaven and that the former things will pass away offer great hope and comfort.

Reflecting on these passages from 1 Corinthians 15:44 and Revelation 21:4 truly helps to look at this question from a new perspective. The belief that God will wipe away every tear and that there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain is incredibly significant.

However, another question arises for me from these reflections: does "the former things have passed away" mean a complete loss of memory of our earthly life, including our relationships and loved ones?

If so, how does this align with the idea that we will retain our individuality in the Kingdom of Heaven? Wouldn't our lived experiences and our memories of those we loved be part of our individuality?

I understand that the main purpose is to avoid any sadness and suffering in God's presence. But is it possible to retain joyful memories of earthly love and affection while being free from the pain associated with loss or separation?

I would be grateful for your further thoughts on this matter.

Sincerely,
Yurii

Hi Yurii,

Glad those scriptures helped you. Our group have talked about this topic a while ago so I can answer as from a `group` perspective.

`...when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.` (1 Cor. 13: 10 - 12)

We know that we are being made like unto Jesus, (Rom. 8: 29 1 John 3: 2) Thus ONLY what is of the Lord in us will pass into glory. Nothing of the old life etc. When we learn to discern the Lord`s work in each other then that is a glimpse of what we will be like in heaven.

And as that is all the Lord`s work individually in each other`s lives, then what a glory of the Lord we will see shining out in manifold `colours` as it were in glory. Also, remember that `stone,` the Lord will give us individually.

`To him who overcomes I will him a white stone, and on the stone, a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.` (Rev. 2: 17)


Christ Likeness and Function. (The White Stone with our New Name. Rev.2: 17)

`To him who overcomes, I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written, which no one knows except him who receives it. ` (Rev. 2: 17)

To have our own new name written on that `white stone,` is to have our specific character and function identified.

`Coming to Him as to a living stone,....precious... ...you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood,...`
(1 Peter 2: 4 & 5)

This shows that the living likeness of Christ, the precious Stone, is imprinted on every redeemed soul. And every living stone built in the spiritual structure of this celestial house, has become a partaker of the divine nature.

We are individually set in the Body of Christ with a specific purpose and function.

`...now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.` (1 Cor. 12: 18)

 

[Yurii]

Good morning, Yurii;

Thank you for bringing this topic up. I have shared this before in the past.

When my wife and I were newlyweds she got pregnant right away. Unfortunately she had a miscarriage at 6 months. At the hospital I was at her beside when they induced the labor. We held our son before they took his body away.

We were in our late 20s, newly married and expecting our first child in 3 more months. This crushed us.

From this side of the world we still miss our child. He would have been 39 years old this year. On the other side we have all the faith he is in spirit form and in God's Hand.

In 2 Samuel 12:23 David expressed hope he would be with his son one day in the afterlife, 23 But now he is dead. Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.” - ESV

In Matthew 19:14 Jesus teaches that little children, or all those who don't understand/grasp the concept of a saving Lord, are protected by God. 14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” - RSV

I have to admit all the Scriptures, theology and theory still fall short with me today regarding our loss. For those who are parents can understand this. At first my wife and I were angry, hurt and at each other. But as time went on we healed and got a grip. The loss of our son brought my wife and me closer together though we never had children again.

No matter what the circumstances are that bring us to God, there is no more pain, suffering, heartache, illness, etc..We know our son has been released of all the pain and our hope is one day we will meet him again.

Does our son miss her and me? Maybe, I don't know. But what matters is he is in the embrace of God and that is a hope that gives us peace.

God bless you, Yurii.

Hi Bob,

Thank you for sharing your personal story and thoughts. It's very touching and shows the depth of your pain and faith.

I completely understand that no words or theological explanations can fully fill the void of losing a child. Your pain as a parent is absolutely understandable.

Your reflections on the Bible passages, especially the words of David and Jesus, are very valuable. They offer a certain comfort and hope for a future meeting.

I was particularly struck by how this tragedy brought you and your wife closer together. It testifies to the strength of your love and support for each other during difficult times.

The thought that your son is now in God's embrace and freed from any pain truly brings peace. The question of whether he misses you remains open, but the main thing is his presence with God.

Thank you, Bob, for your openness and for sharing your hope. May God bless you and your wife.

 

[Yurii]

Yurii, you're asking questions for which Scripture does not provide any specific answer. The best we can do is speculate based upon what we know about God's character and nature. I guess here is where I confess my ignorance and invoke Romans 8:28 .

Blessings to you, brother.

Hi BibleLover!

Thank you for your response and for your honesty in acknowledging that Scripture doesn't provide direct answers to some questions. I completely agree with you that in such cases, we can only speculate based on our understanding of God's character.

Regarding my "knowledge," I must humorously admit that my "ignorance" is clearly on a much higher level than yours, because I had to urgently open and reread Romans 8:28 to understand your reference! Forgive my inexperience in Christian matters, I'm still learning.

But, as you rightly pointed out, Romans 8:28 ("And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose") is indeed a wonderful reminder of God's sovereignty and His good plan, even when we don't have all the answers.

Thank you for your wise comment and for the blessings!

Peace be with you, brother!

 

[Yurii]

These verses come to mind:

Isaiah 25:8 "He will swallow up death forever,
And the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces; The rebuke of His people
He will take away from all the earth;
For the Lord has spoken.

1 Cor 2:9 But as it is written:
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

Isaiah 65:17 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.

I think the last verse speaks the loudest. Plus, I think heaven will be so far beyond what we can possibly imagine it will be difficult to remember the former things, even if we tried. However, if we have family and friends that have been "left behind", it's difficult for us in the present to imagine ever being in a state where they're 'forgotten'.

Hi drequeen!

Thank you for these wonderful verses you've brought up.

They truly offer hope and comfort in the context of our conversation.

Isaiah 25:8 about swallowing up death forever and wiping away tears from all faces is an incredibly powerful image of a future free from pain and loss.

1 Corinthians 2:9 reminds us of the incomprehensible greatness of what God has prepared for those who love Him. This helps us realize that our earthly imaginations may be very limited.

And the verse from Isaiah 65:17, in my opinion, is indeed key in this context. The promise of new heavens and a new earth, where the former will not be remembered or come to mind, is very radical. I understand that right now it's hard for us to imagine a state where we could forget our loved ones who have been left behind. The human heart is attached, and memories are an important part of our lives.

Perhaps this verse doesn't indicate a complete erasure of memory, but rather that the joy and fullness of the new life will be so all-encompassing that former suffering and loss will lose their sharpness and no longer cause pain. Perhaps in the new creation, our perspective will change so much that we will be able to look at the past from a different point of view, filled with understanding and peace.

Your thought that heaven will be so far beyond what we can possibly imagine that it will be difficult to remember the former things, even if we tried, seems very insightful to me.

Thank you for these important reflections and for sharing these inspiring verses!

 

[Yurii]

Hi Yurii,

Glad those scriptures helped you. Our group have talked about this topic a while ago so I can answer as from a `group` perspective.

`...when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.` (1 Cor. 13: 10 - 12)

We know that we are being made like unto Jesus, (Rom. 8: 29 1 John 3: 2) Thus ONLY what is of the Lord in us will pass into glory. Nothing of the old life etc. When we learn to discern the Lord`s work in each other then that is a glimpse of what we will be like in heaven.

And as that is all the Lord`s work individually in each other`s lives, then what a glory of the Lord we will see shining out in manifold `colours` as it were in glory. Also, remember that `stone,` the Lord will give us individually.

`To him who overcomes I will him a white stone, and on the stone, a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.` (Rev. 2: 17)


Christ Likeness and Function. (The White Stone with our New Name. Rev.2: 17)

`To him who overcomes, I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written, which no one knows except him who receives it. ` (Rev. 2: 17)

To have our own new name written on that `white stone,` is to have our specific character and function identified.

`Coming to Him as to a living stone,....precious... ...you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood,...`
(1 Peter 2: 4 & 5)

This shows that the living likeness of Christ, the precious Stone, is imprinted on every redeemed soul. And every living stone built in the spiritual structure of this celestial house, has become a partaker of the divine nature.

We are individually set in the Body of Christ with a specific purpose and function.

`...now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.` (1 Cor. 12: 18)

Hi Marilyn C,

Thank you so much to you and your group for such a deep and well-reasoned response! I found these Scriptures and your reflections on them very helpful.

The reference to 1 Corinthians 13:10-12 about the coming of the perfect and the passing away of the partial is particularly valuable. The image of a child growing up and putting away childish things illustrates this change in our knowledge and understanding very well when we stand before God face to face.

Your explanation that only what is of the Lord in us will pass into glory, and that discerning this work of the Lord in each other is a glimpse of what we will be like in heaven, is very insightful. The image of the manifold glory of the Lord shining through each individual fills me with hope.

Also very interesting is your interpretation of the white stone with the new name from Revelation 2:17 as a symbol of our individual character and function in Christ. Combining this with the image of living stones from 1 Peter 2:4-5, on whom the likeness of Christ is imprinted, emphasizes our uniqueness within the unity of the Body of Christ.

The thought that each of us has a specific purpose and function in the Body of Christ, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:18, adds depth to the understanding of our future glory.

Thank you again sincerely to you and your group for such a meaningful response. It truly helps to better understand this complex topic.

 

[Yurii]

Hello everyone!

First of all, I want to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for your heartfelt participation in the discussion of this challenging topic. I read all your messages about five hours ago, but I needed time to reflect on every word and formulate my response.

I deeply value communicating with you all here on this forum, and that's why I decided to respond to each of you personally first. Now, I would like to share a general conclusion that I'm sure won't be new to many of you, but it has opened up to me specifically through this discussion. It's truly fascinating to see how the Holy Spirit sometimes leads us, in unexpected ways, to the understanding of certain truths.

My conclusion is that I have gained a renewed appreciation for the value of loving our neighbor and have brought it to a qualitatively new level in my understanding. It has also become important to realize that sometimes we get into conflicts with those around us, and then we postpone reconciliation for "someday later"... but that "later" may never come. I personally witnessed a situation where a person was already at the cemetery asking forgiveness at the monument of a deceased relative, hoping that the relative, being in heaven, would hear and forgive them... now all of this takes on a completely different meaning for me.

Sincerity, peacefulness, tolerance, and unconditional love for others – these are what should be an integral part of my communication with every person always. After all, we never know how much time we have left to see those we are interacting with now, and perhaps if we hurt someone, we will never have another chance to apologize and restore the relationship.

Thank you again for your wisdom, compassion, and openness. May God bless each of you!

 

[Yurii]

Good morning, Yurii;

Thank you for bringing this topic up. I have shared this before in the past.

When my wife and I were newlyweds she got pregnant right away. Unfortunately she had a miscarriage at 6 months. At the hospital I was at her beside when they induced the labor. We held our son before they took his body away.

We were in our late 20s, newly married and expecting our first child in 3 more months. This crushed us.

From this side of the world we still miss our child. He would have been 39 years old this year. On the other side we have all the faith he is in spirit form and in God's Hand.

In 2 Samuel 12:23 David expressed hope he would be with his son one day in the afterlife, 23 But now he is dead. Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.” - ESV

In Matthew 19:14 Jesus teaches that little children, or all those who don't understand/grasp the concept of a saving Lord, are protected by God. 14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” - RSV

I have to admit all the Scriptures, theology and theory still fall short with me today regarding our loss. For those who are parents can understand this. At first my wife and I were angry, hurt and at each other. But as time went on we healed and got a grip. The loss of our son brought my wife and me closer together though we never had children again.

No matter what the circumstances are that bring us to God, there is no more pain, suffering, heartache, illness, etc..We know our son has been released of all the pain and our hope is one day we will meet him again.

Does our son miss her and me? Maybe, I don't know. But what matters is he is in the embrace of God and that is a hope that gives us peace.

God bless you, Yurii.

Hi Bob,

Thank you for sharing your personal story and thoughts. It's very touching and shows the depth of your pain and faith.

I completely understand that no words or theological explanations can fully fill the void of losing a child. Your pain as a parent is absolutely understandable.

Your reflections on the Bible passages, especially the words of David and Jesus, are very valuable. They offer a certain comfort and hope for a future meeting.

I was particularly struck by how this tragedy brought you and your wife closer together. It testifies to the strength of your love and support for each other during difficult times.

The thought that your son is now in God's embrace and freed from any pain truly brings peace. The question of whether he misses you remains open, but the main thing is his presence with God.

Thank you, Bob, for your openness and for sharing your hope. May God bless you and your wife.

Good morning, Bob,

I've been reflecting further on my previous message to you, particularly the sentiment that no words can truly fill the void of losing a child. While that may hold true for many, I've come to reconsider my own perspective. I now see that my initial thought carried a certain conventionality, stemming from my own limitations in understanding and a spiritual journey that is still unfolding.

I was reminded of the parable of the rich man who asked Jesus what else he needed to do to inherit eternal life. The parable has resonated with me in a new way. Previously, I understood it primarily as a lesson about the dangers of being attached to material wealth. However, in the context of our conversation about loss and attachment, I now see a broader application. Just as the rich man became very sad and struggled to let go of his possessions when asked to sell them and follow Jesus, I realize that we can also struggle to release our deep attachments to people, even when faced with the inevitability of death. This parable now speaks to me not just about earthly possessions, but about the deeper human tendency to hold on tightly to what we cherish, sometimes even hindering our spiritual growth and acceptance of God's will. It is my hope that understanding this may bring a measure of peace, enabling us to more readily release our loved ones when they depart this world, finding solace in the belief that they are freed from earthly suffering.

I am grateful for the insight the Holy Spirit has provided through this reflection. It has offered me a greater understanding.

Please forgive me that these reflections touch upon your profound loss.

May God continue to bless you and your wife.

In Christ,
Yurii

 

[bobinfaith]

Good morning, Bob,

I've been reflecting further on my previous message to you, particularly the sentiment that no words can truly fill the void of losing a child. While that may hold true for many, I've come to reconsider my own perspective. I now see that my initial thought carried a certain conventionality, stemming from my own limitations in understanding and a spiritual journey that is still unfolding. I was reminded of the parable of the rich man who asked Jesus what else he needed to do to inherit eternal life. The parable has resonated with me in a new way. Previously, I understood it primarily as a lesson about the dangers of being attached to material wealth. However, in the context of our conversation about loss and attachment, I now see a broader application. Just as the rich man became very sad and struggled to let go of his possessions when asked to sell them and follow Jesus, I realize that we can also struggle to release our deep attachments to people, even when faced with the inevitability of death. This parable now speaks to me not just about earthly possessions, but about the deeper human tendency to hold on tightly to what we cherish, sometimes even hindering our spiritual growth and acceptance of God's will. It is my hope that understanding this may bring a measure of peace, enabling us to more readily release our loved ones when they depart this world, finding solace in the belief that they are freed from earthly suffering. I am grateful for the insight the Holy Spirit has provided through this reflection. It has offered me a greater understanding. Please forgive me that these reflections touch upon your profound loss.
May God continue to bless you and your wife. In Christ, Yurii

Good morning, Yurii;

Again, thank you for initiating this topic. I personally feel that it helps us know, learn and understand others when they are led to share their deepest thoughts. It gives us an opportunity to point to each other all things to Jesus.

As far as our loss, it's all good, Yurii. I know where our child is today but our loss brought my wife and me closer to each other. Closer so we can celebrate our 40th this June 1.

God bless you, brother.

Bob

 

[rtm3039]

Hi BibleLover!

Thank you for your response and for your honesty in acknowledging that Scripture doesn't provide direct answers to some questions. I completely agree with you that in such cases, we can only speculate based on our understanding of God's character.

Regarding my "knowledge," I must humorously admit that my "ignorance" is clearly on a much higher level than yours, because I had to urgently open and reread Romans 8:28 to understand your reference! Forgive my inexperience in Christian matters, I'm still learning.

But, as you rightly pointed out, Romans 8:28 ("And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose") is indeed a wonderful reminder of God's sovereignty and His good plan, even when we don't have all the answers.

Thank you for your wise comment and for the blessings!

Peace be with you, brother!

Hi all,

Great discussion.

While my walk with God has not been as long as I wish it had been, it is a walk nonetheless.

If there is one thing I have learned to accept is that God tells us what He believes we need to know, not all that there is to know. I was listening to commentary last night (David Guzik) who was commenting on this. He was using the example (or the question) "How did Cain find a wife?" as a reason some people find it hard to believe.

I look at it like being afraid of rights but going to "jump school." You need an understanding of what is happening, have faith in the person who packed your shoot, and jump.

I still have more questions than answers, but I think this is how it's designed to be.

Ray

 

[bobinfaith]

Hi all, Great discussion. While my walk with God has not been as long as I wish it had been, it is a walk nonetheless. If there is one thing I have learned to accept is that God tells us what He believes we need to know, not all that there is to know. I was listening to commentary last night (David Guzik) who was commenting on this. He was using the example (or the question) "How did Cain find a wife?" as a reason some people find it hard to believe. I look at it like being afraid of rights but going to "jump school." You need an understanding of what is happening, have faith in the person who packed your shoot, and jump. I still have more questions than answers, but I think this is how it's designed to be. Ray

Hello Ray;

You know, I agree that all God wants us to know but not everything. I feel God gives us what we can handle in our capacities, otherwise, we can get overwhelmed.

There are things we don't need to know that another may know because it's appointed to them with God's plan.

God bless you.

Bob