When you start your career, you begin to purchase those goods that you dreamed of as a youth. There are still things that your heart desires, but at last a few of them you are able to possess.
As time moves forward, you accumulate even more goods. Some of them you only recently wanted, but others you are finally able to afford after desiring them for some time.
The time comes near the end of your life, that you realize all those “things” you acquired are of no benefit to you. As death draws near, you come to the stark realization that nothing you possess on earth will go with you into eternity. John Bacon, eminent eighteenth-century English sculptor, said on his deathbed, “What I was as an artist seemed to be of some importance while I lived, but what I really am as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ is the only thing of importance to me now.” Nearing the end of life on earth, the only thing that matters is your relationship with Jesus Christ.
Scripture talks about death in 1 Corinthians 15:56, “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.” This verse reminds you that the sin of Adam brought with it death to all humanity. Knowing that one day you will face eternity, verse 58 gives instruction to how to live your life while on earth: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.”
One day death will overcome you, and you will face eternity empty handed. All that will matter that day is if you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and knowing “your toil is not in vain in the Lord.”
