Proverbs 14.32
“The wicked is overthrown through his evildoing, but the righteous finds refuge in his death.”
This is a powerful statement about the temporary nature of the present world, and that beyond this world awaits eternal life with Christ for those who trust in him. Solomon observes that the wicked are ultimately destroyed by their evil deeds, whereas those who trust in God and live rightly find great solace and comfort in death, because death is simply the gateway to life everlasting.
This is why Paul says in Philippians 1.23: “My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.” For the Christian, death is not the end; it is simply the next step in our journey of life in Christ. For that reason, death is not something to be feared. As this Proverbs says, death is our refuge.
For those who trust in Jesus, physical death is not end; rather, it is simply another stage of the life that the Lord gives to us. It was this very truth that Jesus spoke to Martha regarding the death of her brother Lazarus:
“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26)
The book of James also speaks to the temporary and transitory nature of our present life. The emphasis is not on ignoring what is happening now, but on living with greater intention and purpose every moment. It is about being fully present in the moments you have on earth.
“You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14).
The core message: Life is short. Eternity is long. Live like it.
