Genesis 18:25 · NKJV

Two Things Never to Say to Someone Who Is Grieving (and What to Say Instead)

0:38 Short

What does Genesis 18:25 say?

Please don’t say either of these to someone grieving: “They’re definitely in heaven,” and never “They’re in hell.” You don’t know, and neither do I.

Instead, don’t answer too fast. Ask, “Tell me about them.” Then, “What’s been the hardest part?” And gently, “What are you most afraid of?” Then point them to the Judge: “I don’t know everything about their final moments. But I know God loves them more than we do, and He will do what is right” (see Genesis 18:25).

Full witnessing guide in the episode:
Full episode — Is My Loved One in Heaven? An Honest Bible Answer: https://youtu.be/L9qRNPazs5o

If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, please call or text 988 (U.S.), the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It is free, confidential and available 24/7. Outside the U.S., please contact your local emergency number. Heaven is never a reason to end your life.

Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version® (NKJV®). Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Bible references

Scripture in this video is quoted from the NKJV.

Transcript (show)

Maybe someone you love will ask you this question. Here's what I'd encourage. Don't answer too fast. First, ask, "Tell me about them." Then ask, "What's been the hardest part?" And gently, "What are you most afraid of?" Never give a verdict. Not they're definitely in heaven and never they're in hell.

You don't know and neither do I. So point them to the judge. You could tell them, "I don't know everything about their final moments, but I know God loves them more than we do, and he will do what is

Transcript from the video's captions on YouTube.