Q n A about Heaven #6

Pastor Christopher Choo

Lesson 3247

Q n A about Heaven #6

Will our Joy in Heaven be diminished by what is happening on Earth and in Hell? ( Part 1 )

From the parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man, believers in heaven will know what is taking place on earth and in hell - at least to some extent.

So can we be happy in heaven seeing others on earth suffering from devastating illnesses, broken relationships, or destructive addictions?

Putting it bluntly - can we truly enjoy heaven knowing our loved ones ( maybe one of our children ) are being tormented day and night forever and ever?

I find this question difficult to answer. For we lack the wisdom and insight to fully understand the mind of God.

But I will attempt to give 3 possible answers - one each day - in my daily devotions.

1. Will God erase our memories?

This idea comes from Isaiah 65:17 - " For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former things will not be remembered or come to mind."

But contextually in Isaiah 65:16 it is God who does the  "forgetting" not us. Of course, He can recall Isreal's past transgressions. But He chooses not to hold Israel's sin against her.

What about us? Will our memory be erased to become a blank tape?

Abba Father, Your Word does not tell us conclusively that You are going to erase our memories of those we know and love who may be suffering on earth or in hell. So how do we reconcile our joy in heaven with our knowledge of the suffering of our loved ones on earth and in hell? Kindly reveal to us Your answer in the next two devotions to come to this vexing question. We thank You in advance.