Preparing for Glory: Biblical Answers to 40 Questions on Living and Dying in Hope of Heaven

“We prepare for many things in life: careers, marriages, parenting. But what about death? In Preparing for Glory, Elizabeth Turnage answers many of those questions we have about aging, death, and eternity with biblical wisdom and encouragement gained from experience. This gospel-laced book is both practical and hope filled, equipping believers to prepare for the certain glory that awaits us in eternity.” — Christina Fox, Counselor; Retreat Speaker; Author, A Heart Set Free and The Great Big Sad

There are so few quality resources to recommend on death and dying. Preparing for Glory is that resource. Turnage’s book serves as the pastor’s “go-to” handbook to accompany the Bible. In my almost two decades serving as chaplain to hospice patients and their families, I’ve witnessed folk’s reticence to talk about end-of-life issues. Illness and death, hell and glory, these topics often feel scary or embarrassing to discuss, perhaps even too old-fashioned. Despite the scripture’s perspicuity about our mortality and eventual death, many persist in magical thinking; “If we don’t talk about it, it won’t happen,” “If we do talk about it, it will happen sooner,” or “Talking about these things shows a lack of faith.” Turnage addresses all these human misgivings both compassionately and skillfully. And for those who would explore these topics, many don’t know where to start. When was the last time you heard a sermon on God’s guidance about the losses of aging or how to grieve constructively? To prayerfully navigate the difficult topics at end-of-life, Preparing for Glory presents 40 valuable devotional readings to connect with God and learn from scripture. These reflections can stand alone as a caregiver’s daily cup of encouragement or provide the explorer’s first step of prayer, Bible readings, further writings from God’s people, with questions for deeper contemplation. — Reverend Dr. Michael C. Hoppe, BCC

Elizabeth Turnage really has written a wonderful and helpful, passionate and personal, biblical and theological message that helps readers regardless of whether they are facing their final days, journeying with a dying loved one, or living life to its fullest. Preparing for Glory prepares us and points us toward God’s glory and love for his people amidst the reality of suffering and sadness associated with death. — Jeremy Ruckstaetter, Associate Professor of Counseling, Covenant Theological Seminary

Preparing for Glory is a roadmap for navigating what can feel like a frightening journey, one for which we might feel ill prepared as each day takes us to our eternal destination. Elizabeth Turnage gently leads us through the minefield of hard questions including “Why do people have to die?”, “What will dying be like?”, “How do we know which medical means to employ at the end of life?”, “How do we leave a spiritual and emotional legacy?”, and “Is there a way to intentionally prepare for the end of life by resolving conflicts, expressing gratitude and aging graciously?” Elizabeth gently shows us what scriptures teach about grieving and lament and ultimately how to end well. Each of the 40 questions ends with options for digging deeper into scripture. I suggest reading with your Bible and notebook close by as Elizabeth helps us probe hard questions with Scripture as our guide. Preparing for Glory is a book I’ve been longing for as each day takes me closer to heaven and one I will return to again and again. — Sharon W. Betters, Executive Director, MARKINC Ministries; Author, Treasures of Encouragement and Aging with Grace; Podcast Host, Help & Hope

Preparing for Glory is an accessible and practical guide that encourages the reader to be faithful to the finish. This book is a wonderful tool to not only consider these eternal truths but also guide a meaningful dialogue with loved ones about the most essential things. — Karen Hodge, Coordinator of Women’s Ministries, Presbyterian Church in America (PCA); Author, Transformed

“I love Elizabeth Turnage’s new “work of art” for several reasons. I call it a work of art, and not a “mere” book, because it truly captures the beauty, goodness, and truth of the eternal life Jesus has won for us by his victory over death. We are “Preparing for Glory,” not as a cliche or sentimental spin, but because Christ in us is our “hope of glory.” Everything that is glorious about our God has been made our inheritance by Jesus. Failure to look towards the fullness of this “glory” is a failure to live life now as our Father intends. We should think about heaven more, not less, and we should think about it as God intends. Planning to die isn’t morbid, it’s a joy for those who have already been raised to newness of life in Christ. And planning to die is to love well those we precede, because as Elizabeth helps us understand, we’re not just picking hymns, we are giving big grace to those who will have major stuff to deal with after our passing. This book (work of art!) is theologically fresh, deeply encouraging, and so very practical. — Scotty Smith, Founding Pastor, Christ Community Church, Franklin, Tennessee; Author, Every Season Prayers