My husband died this year, and I’m having a hard time adjusting to life without him. A friend said that I could expect to see my husband again in heaven. But then another friend said that, according to Jesus, the relationships we have on earth won’t exist in heaven. I’m so discouraged.
ANSWER:
The death of a spouse is one of the most traumatic events a person can experience in life. It’s easy to understand why you might feel lonely — and maybe even wrestle with spiritual questions and doubts. The pressure of sudden responsibilities can take a huge toll, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Even routine things can take more effort.
First things first: Let yourself grieve
Our hearts go out to you during this time of sorrow and readjustment. And we encourage you to give yourself time and space to grieve. You may even want to set aside an hour every day or so to work through your grief. (The resources listed below could be a good place to start.)
As you go through this process, remember that God loves you beyond measure. He understands your loneliness and hurt, and He’s more than able to meet your needs. As you move through this dark valley, we pray that you will sense His presence and know the peace that passes all understanding.
Will there be marriage in heaven?
But to come to your question, your second friend has a point: Jesus did say that life in the world to come won’t include marriage as we know it here on earth. When questioned by the Sadducees about this, He said, “For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven” (Matthew 22:30, ESV).
However, Jesus didn’t say that all earthly relationships will be nullified in heaven. Those of us who accept God’s merciful offer of unmerited deliverance and salvation, will definitely be together with our loved ones in the next life. We just don’t know exactly what form that togetherness will take.
Human relationships will be different in heaven. But they can’t be less than what they’ve been on earth. Instead, they’ll be something more, something better, something far more fulfilling and satisfying than we can imagine.
That’s part of the glory of the resurrected life. And the apostle John hints at this glory when he says, “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2, ESV).
We’re here to help
Still, knowing God has prepared for us a glorious eternity with Him doesn’t mean the wounds of this fallen world aren’t real and deeply painful.
Would you call us for a free over-the-phone consultation at 1-855-771-HELP (4357)? Our staff of licensed or pastoral counselors would be honored to hear your heart and come alongside you in any way they can.
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Reflections of a Grieving Spouse
What The Bible Teaches: The Truths of the Bible Made Plain, Simple, and Understandable
