Will I enjoy heaven
If my loved ones are in hell?

To truly grasp the significant question of whether we will recognize our loved ones in heaven or perceive them in hell for turning away from God’s call, we must first consider the very purpose of our existence. Life itself is a divine opportunity, a chance for each soul to either fully embrace or sadly reject the incredible gift of grace offered by God. As articulated so powerfully in John 3:16, this choice defines our journey and our relationships beyond this life. Let us reflect on the immense weight of this decision and the eternal consequences it may hold.

Throughout history, theologians have asserted that worship is the ultimate goal of life, with true worship manifesting in the sincere following and obedience to Christ Jesus. This implies that each soul is like a unique gem, distinct and irreplaceable, crafted by the hands of the Creator, Psalms 139:13-15. The vivid imagery of the Rich Man and Lazarus found in Luke 16:19-31 serves as a poignant reminder of how each soul bears witness to their choices, bearing not just identity but also the weight of their consequences. Scripture paints a picture of heaven, where we will adopt the same mindset as Abraham in paradise —a state of peace and understanding. Those who find themselves in hell inhabit that realm because it was their deliberate choice. Each soul was presented with the opportunity to accept Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior during their time on Earth, yet they turned away from that light.

Consequently, in hell, they will never encounter the Gospel again and will endure eternal torment. In this dark abyss, absent of God, their hearts will become increasingly hardened, akin to the rich man in the parable, and reminiscent of Pharaoh in Exodus 4:21, whose heart God hardened. Only the gentle drawing of God can soften the human heart, as highlighted in John 6:44. Once that drawing is withdrawn due to rejection, the heart reverts to its wretched state, as lamented in Jeremiah 17:9.

A burning question arises: “How can we find joy in heaven if we are acutely aware of our loved ones suffering in hell?” While some argue that the blissful inhabitants of heaven will not dwell on such sorrows, they often reference Revelation 21:4, which promises, “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any pain: for the former things are passed away.” Yet this does not necessarily mean that the memories of lost loved ones will dissolve into nothingness. In fact, before and during the reign of Christ on Earth, saints have the solemn ability to gaze into hell as depicted in Isaiah 66:22-24.

However, those in heaven have accepted their divine calling and embraced grace, allowing themselves to be sanctified through a transformative union with Christ Jesus, whom they hold as their first love (Luke 14:25-27). This deep connection will ultimately wipe away every tear and sorrow, providing a profound sense of love, peace, and joy, as stated in Revelation 7:17.

The love of Christ Jesus within all believers should compel us to embrace the final words of Christ in the Great Commission, as found in Matthew 28:19-20. These words urge us not to miss any chance to seek out those who are lost. In Mark 12:31, Jesus emphasizes the importance of loving our neighbor, a commandment that has resonated throughout history. To truly love others is to warn them about the impending judgment; failing to do so can have serious consequences, as mentioned in Ezekiel 33:6-9.

All believers rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This guidance often comes in the form of a still, small voice or a premonition, prompting action. The conviction of the Holy Spirit is gentle and non-demanding, allowing individuals to choose their path ultimately.

On one occasion, the Holy Spirit impressed upon my heart the need to warn a dear friend about an impending reckoning. I reached out to him not just once, but repeatedly. After his sudden passing, I was overwhelmed with sadness and grief; however, I also experienced a profound sense of peace. This peace is what Christ Jesus offers to each of us. I loved my friend and fulfilled my duty to warn him, and in return, Christ lifted the burden of sorrow from my heart.

But, in some previous instances, I failed to heed the conviction of the Holy Spirit and did not warn someone about a pending reckoning. Yet even in those cases, Christ also lifted the weight of sorrow from my heart.

All believers need to recognize that the journey itself is where transformation and sanctification occur, shaping each believer into His image, as noted in James 1:1-27. It is through Christ Jesus’ love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and grace that our burdens are lifted, as expressed in Psalm 55:22 and Matthew 11:28-30.

So yes, we will know, but all feelings of sadness will be swept away; for in heaven, every soul will exist in harmonious oneness with Christ Jesus. I pray this reflection answers your question and inspires a renewed awareness to love and warn others, just as Christ Jesus has commanded us. God bless.