Over a period of a few months, I visited two dying people—a man of 82 and a woman of 52. Neither wanted to die. Both were greatly loved by their families. Each had many reasons for wanting to keep on living. Along with many others, I prayed earnestly for their healing, but God had other plans.

As soon as these two people realized that God wasn't going to heal them, I saw an amazing transformation in them. They both displayed a calm acceptance of death. Their faces took on a new glow, and from their lips came words of testimony and praise. They knew they were God's children and had the assurance that they would soon be with Jesus in heaven. The peace and joy they radiated brought comfort to their loved ones and friends.

What was the source of such absolute certainty in the face of dying? It wasn't what any of those who ministered to them said or did. It was supernatural grace imparted by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Paul put it like this: "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God" (Romans 8:16).

Praise God! All who trust Christ and who walk in fellowship with Him need not dread the hour of death.  —HVL  — Herbert Vander Lugt