A Blessed Rest
Mike Johnson
Revelation 14:13 says, “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”
The word “blessed” means “happy.” There is an undeniable sense in which death brings sorrow. However, for those who “die in the Lord,” death, in a sense, can be regarded as a happy occasion. Heaven is a place of joy, rest, and peace, and we will experience this for eternity.
How do our “works” follow us? Consider two senses. First, if an individual lives a faithful Christian life, the positive impact of this person’s life continues after death. In Hebrews 11:4, we learn that Able, although dead, continues to speak. Also, Peter spoke of his approaching death in the first chapter of 2 Peter. After pointing out he would soon die, he said, “Moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my decease.” Our life on earth impacts others after we die, and our works do follow us. Another way to look at this passage is that the consequences of our deeds follow us into the next life, as judgment will be based on what we have done upon this earth. II Corinthians 5:10 says, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” Also, in Romans 2:6, we are told God will render to every man “according to his deeds.”
In conclusion, it is essential to consider that this blessed rest spoken of in Revelation 14:13 is only for those “who die in the Lord.” As the text indicates, it is for those who have “labored” for Him. Salvation only awaits those who “die in the Lord.” What is your situation? Are you “in the Lord?” Are you laboring for the Lord? If so, your death can be a joyous occasion!