SUDDENLY!
“They spend their days in wealth, and in a moment go down to the grave” — Job 21:13
“In a moment shall they die…” — Job 34:20
The Bible speaks of men who died suddenly—Job’s children (Job 1:18-19) and King Herod (Acts 12:21-23).
I remember the day my father died of a heart attack in 1962. I was 15 years old. His obituary in the local newspaper read: “Hughes, Allan, of 4655 Winifred, Wayne, died suddenly Dec. 7.” He was only 44 years old and in good health. His death was completely unexpected. Everyone who knew him was shocked to hear he died. My entire life changed on that day. It has truly been said: “What a difference a day makes.” [My mother also died “suddenly” five months later.]
I was thinking recently about that word “suddenly.” My Dad’s death came suddenly and without any warning. It took everyone by surprise.
Some people die of “old age” and of “natural causes.” Others succumb after a long lingering battle with cancer or ALS. When death finally comes it comes as no surprise. People have time to prepare for the inevitable.
However, for others, like my Dad, death comes swift and from “out of no where.” It could be in a traffic accident… a murder… SID’s… a sudden heart attack, etc.
My point is, no one knows exactly when death may come. “For man also knoweth not his time… when it falleth SUDDENLY upon them” (Eccl. 9:12). Therefore, a wise man will be prepared to face eternity at any moment. He will look at each new day as a gift and not waste a single minute to invest in his eternal home.
Are you ready to meet God? It could be sooner than you think. It could be today.
2 Replies to “SUDDENLY!”
Preacher,
My biological father died suddenly when I was three months old. I never knew him but I can assure that he was missed as I am sure you father was missed also. I watched my mother and step-father die of illness and the sad fact is that I do not know if any one of them was saved! I can’t go back and witness to them so my hope is that someone may read this and take courage and witness to mother, father, uncle, nephew, niece or cousin. Go tell them. Share God’s for them, please!
Excellent devotion. My parents lived to an old age and I was spared the trauma many teenagers go through when one or both of their parents die “suddenly.” Your “Thot for the Day” is always enlightening and challenging. God bless you my friend. I have lots of fond memories of preaching in your church many years ago.