How can I overcome the fear of death?

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever." —Revelation 21:4 (NLT)

The fear of death is universal. Even believers, who can be secure in their eternal fate, may still experience the chilling fear of death. But we don't have to fall victim to that fear.

Death wasn't a part of the original plan, but after sin entered the world, death became necessary. In a way, death is a gift of grace from God, otherwise, we would have to live in a sinful world forever.

If you've accepted salvation through Jesus, there's no need fear the end of our life on earth. Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection gives us victory over spiritual death.

But even when we understand that Jesus defeated death, we may still be plagued with that nagging fear. Why does death scare us so much?

Death Takes Us into the Unknown

"Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?" —John 11:26 (NLT)

The fear of not knowing what exactly happens at the moment of death or when it's coming can cause us to be afraid. Will it be painful? Will I see my life flash before my eyes? Will I die young or old? Will it be a result of illness or accident? Since we can't predict the future, the circumstances of our deaths are usually unknown until we're right there. The fear of not knowing how and when we're going to die may cause great anxiety.

Everyone will have to die. When believers die, they enter Heaven to be with God forever (Philippians 3:20-21). At the moment of death, we're immediately in the presence of the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:6-8; Philippians 1:23). We'll remain in Heaven with our Creator until we're resurrected by Him and transitioned into our glorified bodies (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

Death Removes Control

"Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me." —Psalm 23:4 (NLT)

The fear of losing control can be scary in so many situations. We all like to have control over what happens, and when we don’t have control, sometimes we get afraid. Just like the disciple Peter, we have to give control over to God. Peter disowned Jesus three times out of fear (Matthew 26:69-75). After Jesus had risen from the dead, Peter gave all control over to God at last. He was finally able to impact the world for Jesus in a way he never was able to when he refused to surrender (Acts 5:17-42).

Give your desire to control everything over to God and trust Him. He has never failed in fulfilling one of His promises because He is faithful. We can trust Him to be in complete control of our lives—from birth to death.

What about my unsaved family and friends?

"I don't want you to die, says the Sovereign Lord. Turn back and live!" —Ezekiel 18:32 (NLT)

The fear of what happens to the unsaved can create a deep fear of death. Believers are concerned for their loved ones who fail to accept the gospel of Jesus. We're afraid of being permanently cut off from them, never seeing them again. Instead of indulging in these fears, let's use our concern for their spiritual eternity to motivate us to share our faith with our loved ones while they still live.

Build strong relationships, live your life as Christ did, and consistently share the gospel. Whether a person accepts Christ or rejects Him is not something we can control. Their decision to be saved is in their own hands. But we can trust that God will use our planted seeds (John 6:44). While you still have breath, there's no reason not to share about Jesus at every opportunity God brings.

Preparing for Death to Overcome Fear

Taking some steps to prepare for our inevitable death can help us overcome that fear too. Just as the unknown and unexpected brings us fear, planning and knowledge can help bring us peace of mind.

Practical Steps

Ensure that you're taking some practical steps, such as repairing relationships or making sure that anyone who depends on you will be looked after. Writing up a will and making sure your family is aware of any decisions you want to make concerning possessions or medical care will help smooth the way if you die unexpectedly or cannot communicate your wishes.

Physical Steps

Physical steps include taking care of your mental and physical health by attending therapy, consuming nutritious foods, and moving your body regularly. Making sure you have a good doctor and scheduling regular medical check-ups are good ways to help ensure you enjoy the life you have.

Spiritual Steps

Perhaps the most important step in this life is whether we choose to be seated at the feet of Christ upon our death. If you haven't accepted Jesus as your Savior, why not do so today?

"The day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment." —2 Peter 3:10 (NLT)

This world will eventually be destroyed, but we have our home with God in Heaven and in the Eternal State (2 Peter 3:10-13). It can be hard to understand sometimes, but this world is not our home (Hebrews 13:14). We need to keep our minds on things above and focus on loving and serving Jesus as long as we live (Colossians 3:2). Death doesn't need to scare us because Jesus has already defeated death and overcome the darkness.

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." —John 16:33 (NLT)

ALSO SEE:

• Finding Peace While Grieving
• Why do people die?
• What happens after death?
• Do Christians go to Purgatory?
• Does God know the exact day and time when I'll die?
• Will a Christian who dies by suicide go to Heaven?
• How do I cope with the suicide of a friend or loved one?
• How can I be sure I'm saved?
• Faith vs. Fear
• How can I learn to trust God?
• Giving Control to God