Good Words

“The old man had died. A wonderful funeral was in progress and the country preacher talked at length of the good traits of the deceased -- what an honest man he was, what a loving husband and kind father he had been. The widow, meanwhile, was ever so slightly shaking her head as she intently listened to the preacher's words. Finally, the widow leaned over and whispered to one of her children . . . "Erica, honey, go on up there and take a look in the coffin and see if that's your pa in there”” (crosswalk.com).

Oh, if we could all live up to the good words that will be said about us after we are gone! The word “eulogy” literally means “good word.” When we gather to pay our last respects to a departed loved one, it is to be expected that we would focus on the positive instead of the negative. After all, who would want to focus on the bad at a time like that?

As much as we might value the good words that will likely be spoken by our family and friends following our passing from this life, there is another assessment that is even more important. That appraisal will be made by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ It is his perspective that will determine our eternity. After considering our lives, will He speak good words, such as: “Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master” (Mt. 2523)? Or will he have no choice but to utter far more chilling words, like: “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness” (Mt. 7:23)?

The child of God who is living by faith, regardless of any stumblings and imperfections, doesn’t have to fear hearing such words of disapproval from the Lord. The faithful disciple has every reason to confidently expect only good words when the time comes to stand before the Master.

God loves you!
Mike