Stephanie Anderson

Your awareness of the owners/influences of The Epoch Times places it in the same realm we should place any media source: one we need to analyze carefully, using the “grid” of God's Word and His truth. 

I’m so sorry to hear about your loss, and the added pain and regret that you have felt in the wake of your daughter’s death. I’m praying for you and your family as I write this. This is a very long reply to your message, but perhaps something I share will be of help to you.

I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. My mom went to be with Jesus a few years ago, so my heart goes out to you. I don’t think anyone can prepare you for how hard it is to have your mom not here on Earth.

Like anything, our imaginations can be used for good or for bad. Randy also writes, “The acid test of using our imaginations is whether doing so brings us back to the present world content and committed to deal positively with our circumstances. It should leave us refreshed and ready to better face the rest of our day.”

The research article you sent is very interesting. However, I do note that in their limitations section, they say, “Sample sizes were small for some subgroups, resulting in limited power to examine specific beverage types in different phases of the menstrual cycle, or to assess interaction.”

It’s true that Scripture describes Hell in graphic terms (raging fires, worm that doesn’t die, darkness, weeping, gnashing of teeth). We don’t know exactly what the nature of the present Hell is, just as we don’t know exactly whether the present Heaven is a physical place or not. 

I’m so sorry to hear about your best friend. You are in a vulnerable space as you grieve and process this loss. There’s a quote attributed to Elisabeth Elliot that says, “Don’t dig up in doubt what you planted in faith.”

As they have served God and people, angels will continue to serve Jesus and His people on the New Earth. In Scripture, we see them worshipping God (Revelation 7:11), which will continue on the New Earth.

Feeling depressed after such a heartbreaking loss is a normal reaction to the abnormal reality of death in our cursed world. It is one of several stages you may pass through on your way through the “valley of dark shadows.” Learning to lean on your Good Shepherd’s arm through this valley (which, contrary to your current feelings does have an end) will go far in helping you bear your pain. Below, you’ll find several resources that may be a helpful starting point for you.

Consistent victory over sin is possible in this area as with any other sin, with God’s help and empowerment as we partner with His Holy Spirit (Colossians 1:29). But this side of Heaven, we still face temptation, and yes, sometimes we do fail our Lord and Savior by sinning.