Bible Verses That Help Alleviate the Fear of Death

As difficult as life often is, many of us are afraid of what comes next. Fear of death is not particularly different from fear of the unknown; none of our loved ones who have passed on can tell us what they experienced. We are left with God’s promises in His Word to bring us the comfort we need.

“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.” – John 14:18-19, NIV

Jesus used his last few hours on Earth comforting disciples who didn’t fully understand what He was talking about. Such is the heart of God. Though He knows that we can’t fully understand life, death, and the afterlife, He has spoken words of comfort by reminding us that He is always with us.

When we cannot comprehend things, maybe it’s enough for us to remind ourselves that Jesus is with us in the Holy Spirit, and one day we will fully understand what that means.

If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. – Romans 14:18, NIV

Similar to the last verse, this one is saying that we can simply sink into the comfort of knowing that we are connected to Jesus whether we are alive or dead. We can’t know much about the afterlife, but instead, we can focus on what it means to know Jesus in this life. The more we come to know Him, the less space we give to fear.

This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world, we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. – 1 John 4:17-18, NIV

Some people fear death because they have heard about judgment day, and that name alone is enough to cause panic. It is worth talking with a believer about this to understand the biblical idea of judgment and how Jesus has given us hope.

As it says here, the love of God has made all the difference. Because He has shown us love through Jesus, we don’t have to fear punishment on judgment day. Jesus took on any punishment we were meant to have received.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. – Psalms 23:4, NIV

There is a reason pastors use this verse at funerals. It simply and beautifully reminds us that God is with us when things are beautiful and hopeful in life, and He is with us in the dark valleys we go through. Yes, He is even with us in death. The God who lovingly crafted His creation does not abandon it when it dies. He always remains our shepherd.

Getting help for fear of death

If the fear of death is overwhelming to you, it may help to speak with a counselor. Call our offices today. We can connect you to one of the skillful Christian counselors in our directory. They will be happy to listen to your fears of death, in a judgment-free environment. Likewise, they can share with you the message of Christianity, so you do not have to live in fear. Reach out to us today.