Scripture Focus
Hebrews 9:27 (ESV): “And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.”
Devotional Thought
The certainty of death and judgment is a foundational truth taught throughout Scripture. Hebrews 9:27 emphasizes that all people will face death once and then stand before God in judgment. While the immediate context of this verse highlights the sufficiency of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice, it also affirms the reality that every soul will be held accountable before God.
In Luke 16:22–23, Jesus tells the story of the rich man and Lazarus, illustrating that our earthly choices have eternal consequences. The rich man, who lived selfishly without regard for God or others, found himself in torment after death. Meanwhile, Lazarus, despite his earthly suffering, was comforted in Abraham’s bosom. This parable reinforces the reality of an eternal destiny based on one’s response to God.
Romans 14:11–12 further confirms that all will stand before the judgment seat of God: “For it is written, ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.’ So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.” The Church of Christ teaches that judgment will be based on how we respond to God’s Word (John 12:48) and whether our faith is active and obedient (James 2:17).
God desires a genuine relationship with us, but too many seek to glorify themselves rather than glorify Him. True submission involves humbly yielding to His authority, not just acknowledging Him with words but demonstrating faith through obedience.
Practical Application
Acknowledge Your Accountability – Recognize that you will stand before God to give an account of your life. Take this truth seriously and let it motivate you to live according to God’s Word. “The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
Repent and Submit – Examine your life for areas where you have failed to honor God. Confess your sins and make a genuine commitment to obey His Word. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
Live with Eternity in View – Remember that earthly pleasures and successes are temporary. Live with a focus on pleasing God and preparing for eternity. “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2).
Reflection
Are you living with the awareness that you will one day give an account to God? Are there areas of your life where you have not fully submitted to Him? Make today the day you choose to live for God’s glory, walking in faith and obedience.