Death and Taxes – two of three certainties in life
Benjamin Franklin is famously quoted as saying, “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes.” Death and taxes are two certainties in life. Right now, in the United States, for most of us we are facing one of those certainties- taxes! The deadline for filing taxes this year is April 18th . (most years it’s the 15th) We must file our tax returns by that date or face the consequences of potentially severe penalties.
Someday we all will face the other certainty in life – death. I can guarantee you no one will escape the certainty of death. “As it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27 NKJV). Even Jesus had to face physical death. It was death by crucifixion! The most torturous and hideous way a human being could die, but Jesus freely chose to go through that painful process for you and me.
Death and taxes – are two of three certainties in life
Death and taxes are definitely two certainties in life, but there is a THIRD CERTAINTY, that Benjamin Franklin and others often overlook – it’s the certainty of eternal life. There are 3 different deaths the Bible talks about; 1) physical death, 2) Spiritual death, 3) Second death. Every person will live forever spiritually. We will all face the certainty of physical death, but the greater issue is that of spiritual death and the second death. What about eternity? Where will you spend eternity? If you don’t settle that issue the potential consequences are much more severe than those of failing to pay your taxes on time. (to read my post on “What Happens When You Die” click here)
No one has ever received the gift of eternal life AFTER they experience physical death. Not one! If you don’t receive the gift of eternal life in this life, when you die, it is too late. Here’s the amazing thing about the God. He has made it easy for us. He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on a wooden cross for our sins. Then, three days later, He rose victorious from the grave, in order that we might receive eternal life. It is a gift. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23 NKJV) It is a gift that has to be received. God forces no one to live with Him forever.
Receive the Gift of Eternal Life – with the Lord
We don’t have any say or control over two of the certainties in life, that of death and taxes, but we have complete control over the third – eternal life, where we spend eternity. Will it be with the Lord or will it be with the devil? If you have not accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior and His gift of eternal life, what are you waiting for? “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 NKJV) (to watch a video on how to get a new start with God and get my free book “What’s Next click here)
