Revelation 20:15, Christian Standard Bible

“And anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.”

In the Bible, words translated from the original languages into English can carry very different meanings, even when using the same word. For example, the word “fire” can have completely opposite meanings—such as the presence of the Holy Spirit or the unquenchable fire of hell. No one would speak about the second meaning with enjoyment, just as no sinner would celebrate or praise the coming Judgment Day, or feel happy seeing someone holding a sign that says, “Repent, hell is real!” I fully agree this is not a comfortable or easy conversation. It focuses on condemnation rather than hope. Perhaps that is why the Bible mentions heaven far more than hell. Because of this, I am deeply grateful that the Lord has called me to speak life, hope, and encouragement—to prepare a path that draws others to Him through the demonstration of the Holy Spirit’s power, with Christ’s love, and a sound mind.

Recently, however, I have begun experiencing one of the symptoms of growing older—hot flashes (which you may know can happen during menopause). When it happens, it lasts only a few minutes, but the intense heat rises from the neck and chest, sweat forms on the forehead, and discomfort sets in instantly. I have never heard anyone welcome this experience. Instead, I have heard older women say how grateful they are that they never had to go through it, or that they are now free from it.

One evening before church service, three of us ladies stepped outside into the cold air because we were all experiencing that sudden heat. I found myself saying, “How could anyone endure the fire of hell? I can barely endure this heat!” It is not a topic I can joyfully speak about, nor can it be comfortably ignored.

The heat from hot flashes lasts only minutes and happens a few times a day, yet those who experience it long for relief. How much more serious is the fire of hell, where the fire is never quenched—a place from which there is no escape, but eternal consequence? (Isaiah 66:24)

Thank You, Jesus, that I do not need to end this message with the power of hell, but with the power of hope—the salvation that comes through Jesus Christ!

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16, ESV)

“Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:12–13, NLT)

“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” (Revelation 3:5, NKJV)

He who has ears to hear, let him hear!