IF TOMORROW NEVER COMES (FUNERAL SERMON)
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: James 4:13-14a
Key Verse:
“For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” — James 4:14a
Supporting Texts: Psalm 90:12; Ecclesiastes 3:1-2; Hebrews 9:27; John 14:1-3; 2 Corinthians 5:8
INTRODUCTION
Days like this bring us face to face with a truth we often avoid: life is fragile and tomorrow is never guaranteed. We make plans, set goals, and speak confidently about the future, yet Scripture reminds us that our lives are like a vapor, visible for a moment and then gone. The reality of death humbles every human heart.
James addressed believers who were confidently planning their future without acknowledging God’s sovereignty. He did not condemn planning; rather, he corrected presumption. The question he raised echoes powerfully today: “For what is your life?” It is a sobering reminder that time is brief and eternity is certain.
As we gather to honor and remember our departed loved one, we are reminded that life on earth is temporary. If tomorrow never comes for any of us, what truly matters is not how long we lived, but how well we prepared for eternity. This moment calls us not only to reflection but to readiness.
1. THE FRAILTY OF HUMAN LIFE
Life, though precious, is temporary and unpredictable.
a) Life Is a Vapor (James 4:14a)
Scripture compares life to a mist that appears briefly and disappears, emphasizing its fleeting and fragile nature.
b) Our Days Are Numbered (Psalm 90:12)
Moses prayed for wisdom to number our days, teaching that understanding life’s brevity leads to purposeful living.
c) A Time to Be Born and a Time to Die (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2)
There is an appointed time for every season under heaven, reminding us that life unfolds within God’s sovereign timetable.
d) No Promise of Tomorrow (Proverbs 27:1)
We are warned not to boast about tomorrow, because we do not know what a day may bring forth.
Biblical Example:
The rich fool in Jesus’ parable made extensive plans for his future, yet God said, “This night thy soul shall be required of thee” (Luke 12:16-20), illustrating the uncertainty of earthly life.
2. THE CERTAINTY OF ETERNITY
While tomorrow on earth is uncertain, eternity is inevitable.
a) Appointment with Judgment (Hebrews 9:27)
It is appointed unto men once to die, and after this the judgment, underscoring the seriousness of spiritual preparation.
b) Eternal Dwelling with God (John 14:1-3)
Jesus promised that He has prepared a place for His followers, assuring believers of a secure and glorious eternal home.
c) Present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8)
To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, giving comfort that believers enter Christ’s presence immediately.
d) Everlasting Life Through Christ (John 3:16)
Faith in Jesus secures eternal life, transforming death from a fearful end into a hopeful transition.
Biblical Example:
The thief on the cross turned to Jesus in his final moments and received the promise, “Today shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:42-43), proving that eternity begins the moment one trusts in Christ.
3. THE CALL TO LIVE WITH ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
If tomorrow never comes, how should we live today?
a) Living in God’s Will (James 4:15)
We ought to say, “If the Lord will, we shall live,” acknowledging God’s authority over our plans and decisions.
b) Investing in What Lasts (Matthew 6:19-21)
Jesus instructed us to lay up treasures in heaven, because eternal rewards far outweigh temporary gains.
c) Walking in Readiness (Matthew 24:44)
We are encouraged to be ready, for the Son of Man comes at an unexpected hour.
d) Loving and Forgiving Now (Ephesians 4:32)
Since time is uncertain, we must extend kindness, forgiveness, and love without delay.
Biblical Example:
Noah prepared the ark in obedience to God despite never having seen rain, and his readiness preserved his household (Genesis 6:13-22), demonstrating the importance of acting in faith before the unexpected arrives.
4. THE COMFORT OF HOPE IN CHRIST
Even in grief, hope anchors the believer’s heart.
a) Comfort for Troubled Hearts (John 14:1)
Jesus urged His disciples not to let their hearts be troubled, directing their faith toward God’s promises.
b) Hope Beyond Sorrow (1 Thessalonians 4:13)
Believers grieve, but not as those without hope, because resurrection is assured.
c) Victory Over Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57)
Through Christ, death is swallowed up in victory, removing its final sting.
d) God’s Nearness in Grief (Psalm 34:18)
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those crushed in spirit.
Biblical Example:
When Lazarus died, Jesus wept with the grieving family yet demonstrated His power by raising him (John 11:35-44), showing both divine compassion and authority over death.
CONCLUSION
“If tomorrow never comes” is not merely a phrase; it is a profound reality. Life is fragile, and time is limited. Yet while tomorrow on earth is uncertain, eternity with Christ is secure for those who believe. The brevity of life should not produce fear but wisdom.
Today, as we honor the memory of our departed loved one, let us reflect deeply on our own lives. Let us live intentionally, love sincerely, forgive quickly, and trust completely in Christ. If tomorrow never comes, may we be found ready, anchored in faith, secure in hope, and confident in eternal life.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, teach us to number our days and apply our hearts unto wisdom in Jesus name.
2. Lord, comfort every grieving heart gathered here today in Jesus name.
3. Father, help us to live each day in alignment with Your perfect will in Jesus name.
4. Lord, grant us assurance of eternal life through faith in Christ in Jesus name.
5. Father, heal every wound caused by this painful separation in Jesus name.
6. Lord, remove fear of death and replace it with confident hope in Jesus name.
7. Father, help us to forgive, love, and reconcile while we still have time in Jesus name.
8. Lord, strengthen this family and uphold them with Your righteous hand in Jesus name.
9. Father, draw every heart closer to You through this moment in Jesus name.
10. Lord, prepare us all for eternity and keep us ready at all times in Jesus name.
