we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is" (1 John 3:2).
• We will recognize our loved ones who died in Christ, and also fellowship with the great Bible saints: "And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, 'Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah'" (Matthew 17:3–4).
• Heaven's completeness and glories are indescribable: "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory. . . . 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'" (1 Corinthians 2:7, 9).
Billy Graham comments: "Heaven will be a place in which its inhabitants will be freed from the fears and insecurities that plague and haunt us in the present life. . . . We will be free from the economic and financial pressures that burden us down here, free from the fear of personal and physical harm. . . . There will be no fear of personal failure. . . . Our relationship with Him will be intimate and direct. I'm looking forward to that glorious day of going to heaven."
Helping Strategy
1. For the Christian who wants to be reassured about heaven and the future life, share the material in the "Background." Perhaps he or she has lost a loved one; be sympathetic and sensitive to the Holy Spirit as you try to encourage and comfort: "Therefore comfort one another with these words" (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Make sure your inquirer is a Christian and is ready for heaven. If needed, refer to "Steps to Peace with God," page 11.
2. For the non-Christian with questions about future events and heaven, share the material in the "Background," turning, if indicated, to the chapter on "Prophecy" for additional help. Share "Steps to Peace with God," page 11.
Scripture
"For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell.