That Other Place (#302 of 365+)

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28)


Hell has become almost unmentionable. The subject is clearly offensive to many in our culture. Pastors don’t often preach about it from the pulpit. The few Christians who actually try to share the gospel seem to smooth over the topic a little. But Hell is a grim reality that should be brought to light more often.

“[Hell] has long been prepared; it has been made ready for the king. Its fire pit has been made deep and wide, with an abundance of fire and wood; the breath of the LORD, like a stream of burning sulfur, sets it ablaze” (Isaiah 30:33)

Jesus Christ himself warned that Hell exists and it was created by God for Lucifer and the fallen angels (Matthew 25:41). Although mankind was never meant to see it, it will be the eternal destination for souls who have rejected the grace of God in this life. As Joni pointed out, “It’s unnatural for humans to be there—as unnatural as turning our backs on a Creator who loves us.” If the thought of eternal destruction is unthinkable, it’s even more unthinkable that God would ever force someone to be with him if they didn’t want to be. Hell is actually something a person chooses for himself and not God’s punishment for sin. The truth is none of us are without sin! The only thing that separates those who are going to Heaven from those who are going to Hell is not an abundance of good works but the appropriate covering for sins—the blood of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

“The LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!” (Isaiah 30:18)

Father, thank you that the death of your Son fully satisfied your sense of justice. Thank you for the life of your Spirit. Thank you for showing me your loving, compassionate heart. Thank you for giving good gifts and that you will keep all your promises. Thank you that the worst kind of reality—being forever separated from your Spirit—is something I will never experience. Help me to remember your truth and communicate it to others. May I always be faithful to you and obedient in doing what you’ve called me to do. Amen.