How to Prepare for Death | #7 Powerful Questions

Born in a time of plague, the Ars Moriendi taught Christians how to prepare for death by focusing on spiritual readiness for eternal life. Written when the Church was undivided, it calls believers “Christians,” emphasizing universal salvation through Christ. The third pillar’s questions, often asked by a loved one or clergy, strengthen faith, prompt repentance, and foster trust in God’s grace, offering emotional support in the face of death.

Ecclesiastes 7:2 reminds us, “It is better to go to the house of mourning than to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart.” These questions show every Christian how to prepare for death, ensuring care and peace for a person in their final moments, whether in hospice or palliative care.

1. Do You Believe in the Christian Faith and Rejoice in It?

This question affirms trust in Jesus as Savior, a key step in preparing for death. Hebrews 11:6 states, “Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists.” Philippians 1:21 adds, “To live is Christ, and to die is gain,” inspiring joy in eternal life. Faith unites Christians facing death.

Application: Pray daily to deepen trust in Christ, finding peace for a good death.

2. Do You Recognize Your Sins and Grieve Over Them? Acknowledging sin leads to repentance, which is vital for preparing for death. Psalm 51:1-2, David’s plea, “Have mercy on me, O God, wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,” models sorrow for sin. In Luke 18:13, the tax collector prays, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner,” showing the humility God honors. Some seek forgiveness through confession; others pray directly to God in hospice care. A friend found peace praying over past regrets.

Application: Reflect nightly, confessing sins to renew your heart.

3. Do You Resolve to Live for God If Given More Time? This urges holiness, shaping how to prepare for death. Ezekiel 18:31 calls, “Cast away from you all the transgressions and make yourselves a new heart.” Acts 3:19 promises, “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.” Choosing kindness over anger ensures a faithful life.

Application: Set a goal, like daily Scripture reading, to grow closer to God.

4. Do You Forgive Others and Seek Their Forgiveness? Forgiveness heals relationships, which is essential for how to prepare for death. Matthew 6:14 says, “If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Jesus’ prayer in Luke 23:34, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” models boundless love. I’ve seen a loved one reconcile at a bedside, easing grief.

Application: Reach out to forgive or seek forgiveness, offering emotional support.

5. Do You Commit to Righting Wrongs You’ve Done? Restitution reflects God’s justice, part of how to prepare for death. Luke 19:8 shows Zacchaeus repaying fourfold, proving repentance. Exodus 22:1 emphasizes restoring what was taken. Returning a borrowed item with an apology can restore trust.

Application: Make decisions to right wrongs, like repaying a debt, for a person’s peace.

6. Do You Believe Christ Died for You and Trust His Salvation? This centers on Christ’s sacrifice, the heart of how to prepare for death. 1 Peter 2:24 affirms, “He himself bore our sins, by his wounds you have been healed.” Luke 23:42-43’s good thief pleads, “Jesus, remember me,” earning paradise. All Christians share this hope.

Application: Thank Jesus daily for His sacrifice, surrendering fears in prayer.

7. Do You Entrust Your Soul to God and Release Worldly Attachments? This invites surrender, letting go of earthly concerns for eternal life. Matthew 16:25 reminds us, “Whoever loses his life for my sake will find it”. Trusting God brings peace for a person facing death.

Application: Pray to release worries, like funeral planning or burial arrangements, focusing on God’s care.