Answers

Q:

When we get to heaven, do you think we'll remember all the things that happened to us here on earth? Some of my memories aren't very good, and I think I'd be happier in heaven if they were just forgotten.


A:

The Bible doesn’t answer all our questions about heaven, and we need to be careful not to speculate or go beyond what the Bible tells us. Heaven, after all, is far more glorious than anything we can ever imagine. As the Bible says, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9).

However, the Bible does indicate that in heaven we will have some remembrance of what we did during our time on earth. For one thing, someday we will stand before God to give an account of our lives and our faithfulness to Christ. Jesus warned, “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken” (Matthew 12:36). The Bible also says that “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight … to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13).

Do these words make you uncomfortable, or even alarm you? They shouldn’t—not if you know Christ. The reason is because Christ came to take away our sins, and when we commit our lives to Him in faith and trust, He cleanses us of every sin. In heaven, our sins will be revealed—but so will Christ’s love and forgiveness. Are you trusting Him alone as your Saviour and Lord?

In heaven, I believe we also will be able to look back and see how God was working in our lives, even during the hard times. Now our understanding is limited—but someday it will be complete.