My journey of grief began in 2011 with the loss of my son, Corey, to an overdose. It continued for another decade with the tragic passing of my second son, Sean, to the same fate. Through these profound losses, I gained valuable insights into my deep reliance on the divine for solace and guidance. As I remained steadfast in my faith and sought the Lord’s presence, I discovered a wealth of wisdom in the sacred texts of Scripture.
Proverbs 11:4 serves as a poignant reminder that material wealth alone does not guarantee salvation on the day of judgment. Conversely, righteous living holds the power to protect against the inevitability of death.
Society often promotes the notion that accumulating wealth and material possessions guarantees a fulfilling existence. It is crucial to recognize that God does not oppose prosperity while also acknowledging that He emphasizes a fundamental truth we often overlook: righteousness possesses a strength money can never replicate.
Are we living in accordance with righteousness? Are we guided by the light of the Lord, striving to embody His heart? Are we actively serving as the hands and feet of Jesus, even in this life on Earth? Are we dedicated to assisting orphans and widows in their distress? As James 1:27 proclaims, “Pure and undefiled religion is this: to visit orphans and widows in their troubles.” These are the actions that truly lead to salvation.
Ultimately, there will come a day when our financial status will cease to hold any significance and we will be required to stand before our Creator and account for our lives. We will be judged based on our integrity, faithfulness, love for Him, and our treatment of others.
Recently, I experienced the profound loss of my mother. As I sat by her bedside, I realized that all the material possessions she had accumulated throughout her life held no true value. What truly mattered was the way she lived her life. This realization brought me a sense of comfort, knowing she is now enjoying the streets of gold, reaping the rewards of her righteous life in Heaven.
Concluding with Matthew 25:23, Jesus commends a faithful servant for their unwavering devotion, proclaiming, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of the Lord.”
I invite you to join me on this journey of righteousness and faith.
Sincerely,
-Cheryl Juaire, Sean and Corey’s Mom
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