Pets and the rapture

I'm asked more often lately about what will happen to our pets when we're raptured. Some ask about the animals we keep, being a farm community. This place abounds with cows, bulls, buffalo, mules, goats, chickens, pigs and more. An ancillary question is often asked about pets and/or animals in the New Earth. I find the question fascinating, and also encouraging. The question about pets during the rapture has two answers: the literal one and the abstract one

The literal answer would have to refer to the bible. The book of Genesis tells us that we are unique in God's creation, being made in His image and likeness. Also, though we and the animals have the breath of life in us, we were made to have dominion over the animals. It is reasonable to assume that our futures will be different, being of different flesh and having had different roles on earth.

We read in Isaiah 11:6-9 that there will be animals walking the earth during the Millennial Kingdom.

"The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them. And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice' den. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea."

Those verses do not give us any indication one way or another specifically whether any of those animals will be our resurrected pets or whether they will be all newly created animals, or whether they will be animals completely different from any we could conceive of. After all, our normal picture of angels never prepared us for the passages in Ezekiel 10:10-12 with the cherubim of four faces and wheel within wheels. And a word of caution. Remember, a redeemed earth is not a resurrected earth.

After the thousand year reign of Christ on earth concludes and He makes a New Heaven and a New Earth (Rev 21, 22, 2 Peter 3:13, Isaiah 66:22) there is no indication that animals will be present with us. I take comfort in the Genesis flood accounts that He took care to provide for animals of the earth. He didn't make new animals after the flood, and He didn't give Noah only the animals he would eat and sacrifice, but He provided for all the kinds of animals. But the truth is, we simply don't know.

We do know for a fact that we will feel all joy in the new heaven, and the former things will not be remembered nor come to mind. (Revelation 7:16-17). I take that to mean that if our pets are not accompanying us in the eternal state, not only the crushing guilt of our sin will no longer be remembered and not only also our lost family members and friends will not come to mind, but also we will not remember our pets. Everything necessary to our happiness will be in heaven, and that will mean they will either be present or their memory will be absent.

The abstract answer to the question as to what happens to our pets indicates a growing awareness of the real impacts of imminent rapture. Many Christians who ask me this have been Christians for a lifetime, or at least many years. We always hear about the rapture and know it as truth and adhere to it as a doctrine, but peeking into the nuts and bolts of the mechanics of it has largely been absent from our thoughts. This is because until now it has not been obvious that we are the generation spoken of that will experience it. Though the rapture has been imminent for thousands of years, the conditions that immediately follow our departure haven't been.

But those conditions are present now and growing more glaring by the minute. We are the generation, (Mt 24:34) and the veil slips further from our eyes as knowledge increases (Daniel 12:4). Christians are waking up to the fact that the rapture could indeed occur in our lifetime, or next year, or tomorrow. As we gaze around at our world and see the absence of the church, we start picturing what it will exactly look like.

I have two indoor cats. When I'm raptured, whether it occurs when I'm home or at work, it means they will starve. They will be thirsty and alone and lonely and confused. Maybe a tree will fall on the house in one of the terrible storms and disasters prophesied to come upon the earth, and maybe they will be injured or escape defenseless into the world, only to be eaten by a larger predator. Maybe they will not escape the house but in their confusion and grief, turn on each other. I don't know. But it will be bad. The future does not look good for them.

Nor does it look good for the chickens in the pens and the cows needing to be milked and the dogs tied to the pole or inside the car while the master is inside getting coffee. I try not to think about it. It is just one of the many tragedies that will occur during this time. After all, Jesus Himself said "For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened." (Matt. 24: 21-22). It will be a very bad time, for not only the people but for the animals who suffer under the same corrupted earth that we do. I simply try not to dwell on it.

I take encouragement from something Texas Baptist Pastor Don Fawcett said, "For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, , in hope, that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.” Romans 8:20-21. It seems abundantly clear from this verse that 1) the entire creation was subjected to decay and corruption due to sin, 2) animals and pets are created beings, 3) animals and pets are subject to corruption as part of the fallen world, 4) Christ, in his atonement, undid the sin/death principle for all corrupted creation, 5) at the eschaton, all things that have been effected by sin and corruption unwillingly will be restored. So, my conclusion- animals or pets in heaven? Animals? No doubt. Personal pets? I don’t know but it is certainly within the scope of biblical theology." I would like to agree with this.

I know God is good. His thoughts are above our thoughts and His plans are always working together for the good and His glory. It comes down to trust. I trust His thoughts and I trust His ways. After all, He sent Jesus to us. He sent the Holy Spirit to us. He sent the bible to us. He knows whither a sparrow falls and He knows our emotions and needs. Maybe He will send Fluffy and Scrappy to us! Heaven is perfection, and so, it will be perfect. I trust that with all my soul.


Comments

  1. I have been thinking about this for sometime now. My dogs are crated and the thoughts of them starving alone makes me sad. Then I feel guilty because human souls left behind should be dominating my thoughts.

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    1. Ho to youtube and look up animals go to heaven Jack Van Impe. He shares many scriptures and he thinks that animals will be raptured. I keep doing a google search for what animals will be in the tribulation and i cant get a thing to come up. So hopefully as Christ gets us off this earth before the tribulation, I pray he will rescue all the animals as well. Don;t feel bad for people left behind that rejected God. Pray for them now that they may be saved. I have gotten a lot of hate from aethiests, and they tried to destroy my faith and belief in God and Jesus. By God's grace they did not destroy my faith.

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    2. Sorry about my typo meant GO to you tube..meanwhile i found Romans 8:18-22 that talks about creation groaning and waiting for our redemption..that is paraphrased..WHY would creation groan and long for OUR redemption if they the animals were going to just stop existing? I say they wouldn't! In faith I believe that Jesus will redeem them as well! If we being evil can love our animals and animals so much, how much more would a loving God who created them?

      I also found out we are pre tribulation..why else would Jesus say 2 will be working in the field and one will be taken and the other left behind?

      Scripture also says when you see the BEGINNING of these things know your redemption is near.

      Thank you Jesus for your gift of salvation!

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    3. Fear not everyone. Billions of angels will be dispatched all over the world at the moment we are taken up. Psalms 55.22 states that the Lord will never allow his people to be shaken. What would shake us up the most? Leaving our pets behind. Read also Psalms 91 and see what great care he will take of us. Don't worry. Your pets will be well taken care of. There are not billions of angels in heaven for nothing!

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    4. Hi well-versed,

      I like your theory and hope that it's true. But sadly there is nothing in the Bible that explicitly describes the scenario you've shared...

      I venture to say that parents with unsaved children would shake us up more, or, according to the verse, be a struggle or burden, than leaving Fido behind. Not to diminish one's relationship with one's dog or cat or horse or ferret...but people matter more.

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    5. Im praying to our Father, that when he takes me and all in the rapture, that he will take the life from our pets too. I know there is no one to care for my furbabies. They have a soul but not exactly like humans. So if their soul just dies and thats it, then it's better than starving or living in fear. That's all.

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    6. I've already ask my loving God that when he takes my last breath, that he will take my dog's last breath so they wont suffer when im gone. They will stzrve and live in fear. I can imagine it being worse than when the floods happen and people lose their pets. It would be great if we could be reunited with our pets, but if thats not the case, i can face that they're not suffering here in the horrible world. But since God is gonna take away our tears and memories of this life, then i dont think we will think about them anymore. He won't let us suffer or cry over our loved ones that turned from him. Heaven will be our eternal home of no more worries or sorrows.

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    7. Im praying to our Father, that when he takes me and all in the rapture, that he will take the life from our pets too. I know there is no one to care for my furbabies. They have a soul but not exactly like humans. So if their soul just dies and thats it, then it's better than starving or living in fear. That's all.

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  2. I'm sure you do think about the human souls, too. I know I do. I cry and weep for them at times. I think we feel such pain for our pets because they depend on us for everything. The babies and children will go but the pets are vulnerable and we feel guilty because we will be abandoning them, essentially. I'm counting on my joy at seeing Jesus to overpower guilty thoughts of my loving pets. I know that Jesus sent them to me, and they sure have been good animals.

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    1. Why don't we all pray to our heavenly Father to have our pets and even all the animals be raptured? I think it's very selfish to leave our beloved animals here to a horrible, frightening life while ourselves enjoy happy heavenly life. Didn't Jesus say: " Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven"? I pray for my beloved animals everyday. If they will not be rescued, I prefer stay and die with them together.

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    2. Why don't we all pray to our heavenly Father to have our pets and even all the animals be raptured? I think it's very selfish to leave our beloved animals here to a horrible, frightening life while ourselves enjoy happy heavenly life. Didn't Jesus say: " Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven"? I pray for my beloved animals everyday. If they will not be rescued, I prefer stay and die with them together.

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    3. Logan, I know we love our pets so much, but it is not up to us to leave them or take them. Animals are in the sovereign care of God, who ordains all things.

      If you would prefer to stay behind and die with your pets than go to heaven and be with the Holy Savior then this means your pet is an idol, and you are breaking the first commandment.

      I agree with you that we should pray on the matter.

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    4. My son and I prayed about this. We are in agreement, ultimately trusting them in the hands of a loving Creator Father, Who loves them more than we do.

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    5. Yes, it's a simple matter of ask and receive!

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    6. Logan, i am with you on this one. I think we should pray and ask our Heavenly Father, and our Lord Jesus to rapture our pets with us.
      My biggest fear is to leave them behind. I just can't bring myself to even think about it.

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  3. Well, anonymous has a good point, too about thinking of human souls.
    One thing I have thought and that I have told my daughter is that surely someone will find our abandoned home and be so thankful for our farm animals. Maybe they'll be thankful that our cats are good mousers too!

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  4. I agree Anonymous has a good point, as do you Mrs Jennifer. I don't think having compassion or our pets and having compassion for people is a mutually exclusive situation though. It isn't one or the other. Just because we mourn pets and animals doesn't mean we don't mourn people and vice versa.

    I was thinking about the farm animals, I hope the starving people will use them well.

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  5. Aaw I really hope animals will be in the new heaven and new earth...I even imagine there might be animals we've never seen on earth before...I'd love to be able to play with all sorts of animals, I really do admire them as God's creatures but if not, like you said, it won't really matter.

    I think animals left behind, if they survive till Armageddon will just be spared...or maybe not....who knows...either way, I think animals, especially smarter animals like dogs will bring some comfort to those left behind and since animals are great at sensing danger...they sadly might do a better job of staying out of harm's way than most people ever could...It's all so weird to think about but God knows and has set every intricate detail and anything that happens will be perfect.

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  6. This thought has been going through my mind as well. So I took it to God and He brought to my mind Ninevah. When Jonah told them to repent the king called a fast for the whole nation children and animals included. So I asked Father what does this mean? And I was impressed with pray for your animals, cover them in the Blood of Christ. So I did. I don't know what will happen but I do know He is a good God maybe the animals belonging to Christian homes will be raptured as well, who knows but this sure does calm my heart knowing that no matter what they will be fine either here or not.

    Thanks for making a post on this tough thought.

    Blessings,
    <><

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    1. Father has put the same thing on my mind. I pray the blood of Jesus over me, my pets, family, home and neighborhood every day.

      Blessings

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    2. I also plead the blood of Jesus on my family, neighborhood, pets, home, employer and employees. God is a good God and I am entrusted to keep and care for these animals. I believe they will be raptured with me and my family.

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    3. The realization of the Rapture actually being true, will certainly cause mass confusion and distress. I wonder just how many things will be left to this corrupt world because they realize it's too late!

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    4. It will be too late to join the Bride during the Age of Grace, the rapture closes that opportunity. However it will not be too late to be saved, as many many join the faith after the rapture. However, they must do so before the great delusion comes upon the whole world and they will be martyred for it, or die of starvation. However their eternity will be glorious. I agree with you that mass confusion and distress are going to be a the highest levels the world has ever seen.

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  7. This is the first anonymous. My husband came up with an idea to help the pets and to witness too. We have the 10 Commandments posted in our yard. He suggested we put up a sign "In case of rapture please free my pets". Seems like a good idea but I don't want to invite riff raff before the rapture.

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  8. I belive that God gives us the desires of our hearts and he will take care of our pets. They are a gift from Him and not appointed to wrath. I believe He will take them to be with us because he knows how much we love them.

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  9. Hi Anonymous,

    I hope so! That is a very good thought.

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  10. Thank you for your words of encouragement. They have brought me peace about my little dog this evening. Bless you!

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  11. I think animals will go to heaven, they might be their during the rapture; but I believe we will meet either way. Animals are not much of a worldly thing so why not? Animals help those who need it & they save lives. I will make sure I pray for my pets. So, that is what I believe.

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  12. I, too, have been thinking a lot about my animals. Especially my toy poodle who is like a child to me. Even though I trust God and know His ways are BEST, my secret prayer is that: because He loves us, (Christians--children of Almighty God), He will wisk away what is dear to our heart at that moment. That is my sincere prayer. (sniffle, sniffle)

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    1. Me too, Anonymous., I've been hugging my two indoor cats to me and apologizing to them in advance.

      I listened to John MacArthur's weekly Q&A last night. One Q that was asked was will there be animals in heaven, especially our pets. He gave an uncharacteristically insensitive answer. He said, "No, probably not. There are gardeners on earth and their plants won't be their either."

      He explained that there are a lot of things God gave us for our pleasure and enjoyment on earth that will not be in heaven, (sex comes to mind) and that the bible is silent on the topic of pets in heaven.

      Randy Alcorn is more positive on the subject, you can read his answer here

      http://www.epm.org/resources/2010/Feb/3/will-there-be-animals-heaven/

      I think there will be animals on the new earth. When God made the creation, including all the animals, He called it "good." So I pray that animals will be in heaven, especially and specifically *my* two pets. And yours too.

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    2. I HAVE BEEN PRAYING A LOT ABOUT THIS AND ONE OF THE THINGS THE LORD TOLD ME WAS "WHY WOULD I PUT SO MUCH LOVE IN YOUR HEART AND THE HEARTS OF MANY OTHERS THE DEEP, DEEP LOVE FOR MY INNOCENT CREATURES". THAT MAKES TRUE SENSE TO MY SPIRIT AND MY HUSBAND'S SPIRIT DEEPLY! NOTHING IS TOO HARD FOR GOD! I BELIEVE HIS CREATURES ARE PURE AND ALL THE PURE HEARTS OF PEOPLE AND ANIMALS WILL BE CAUGHT UP IN TO HEAVEN!!! THEY HAVE SUCH PURE LOVE, JUST LIKE GOD!!! THEY WERE NOT PUT IN OUR LIVES TO MERELY COMFORT US, WE LEARN MUCH ABOUT UNCONDITIONAL LOVE FROM THEM; THEY WERE WONDERFULLY MADE BY GOD JUST LIKE WE WERE!!! THEY WERE DEFINITELY PUT HERE BY HIM FOR US TO GIVE US THE DEEP MEANING OF LOVE, BLESS US, BUT GOD ASKED US TO CARE FOR AND RESPECT THEM WHICH IS MORE THAN A BLESSING FOR US!!! THEY ARE SO PRECIOUS! I HONESTLY CANNOT BELIEVE EVER THAT OUR GREAT, GLORIOUS AND LOVING GOD WOULD TAKE US WITHOUT OUR PRECIOUS PETS AND LEAVE THEM TO FEND FOR THEMSELVES WHEN HE PLACED SUCH A HUGE DESIRE IN SO MANY OF OUR HEARTS TO LOVE AND CARE FOR THEM!!! THAT JUST MAKES NO SENSE WHATSOEVER AT ALL!!! RIGHT NOW AS i AM TYPING THIS, ONE OF MY SWEET CATS HAS HIS PRECIOUS PAW ON MY ARM AND LEANING ON MY LEG AND LOOKING UP AT ME; NOW WHAT DOES THAT TELL YOU? YES, CONFIRMATION OF PURE LOVE! JESUS CONQUERED DEATH FOR ALL CREATION BECAUSE OF HIS GREAT LOVE AND NOW WE HAVE THAT GREAT LOVE AS WELL. BE COMFORTED IN THIS, FAMILY OF GOD.

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    3. I have always said that when we get to heaven, God knows what makes us happy. Our beloved pets will be there, I believe it!

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    4. god made sure the animals were safe from the nephilim demons at noahs ark so our pets will be safe too

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    5. i heard that too, heard if one prays about their furbabies so they can be raptured like we will be then they will be raptured along with us

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  13. Nice posts dear friends...I also have a goat dairy farm and as some of you probably know, goats have personalities like dogs. Along with various other animals I have four Yorkies and a lovely Pittie. Your thoughts have been mine, too, and I found your comments on others taking care of them to be a comfort. What about this...where do all those horses in heaven come from? The Bible talks about all the saints coming back with Jesus - on horses. Also, people who have visited heaven and come back to give their accounts talk about animals in heaven :)

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    1. Will Rodgers said" If there are no (dogs) animals in heaven, I want to go where they go". Me too!

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  14. He was born in a stable, He laid in a manger, He was a shepherd - also known as The Lamb, He rode a donkey into Jerusalem and He is coming back on a horse. I have no doubt our/His animals will be fully taken care of. As a shepherd of sheep (meaning animal, not man by sheep) He was also a pet owner and I am sure He loved them dearly, therefore, I would think all of His pets are with Him now. Ours will be also. I take comfort knowing He will take care of it. What you have bound on earth will be bound in Heaven.

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    1. Your response really hit home with me. There is much mention and symbolism in the Bible of animals. Also, the great care God took with the ark and putting all the animals aboard. I will continue to pray for my pets to be saved. God bless

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  15. I believe that GOD,as good as HE is,has a plan that includes our pets.HE created them,they are HIS lil creatures,and innocent in HIS eyes.No,we do not know how HE will work it out,but we can rest asure,HE has wonderful plans for them,indeed!Praise HIM eternally, through CHRIST our LORD!

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  16. Exactly Anonymous,said perfectly....And if HE is coming back on a horse,HE is riding it on down here to earth,which means they were already with HIM, most likely in Heaven!

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  17. No one knows or can claim to know that animals will NOT be in the rapture, or taken in another way or situation. I know my dog and I will NEVER be seperated by eternity, we will be there together, forever, and I don't need a bunch of bible thumper "know it all's"
    telling me what GOd is going to do or not do. When you get to personally ask him everything come back and report the answer's. Also, I do not weep for human souls who don't go in the rapture...because they choose their life, and choose to either reject or to be with Christ. Take this warm and fuzzy cookie and koolaid crap elsewhere. Thanks.

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    1. Anonymous, you 'know' that your dog will be with you, but discount the Christians as "know it alls". Hm...

      The glory of knowing the Lord is that He told us the end from the beginning. We have faith in His word because it has proved itself over and over, and its prophecies in the past came to pass exactly as He said. There is enormous comfort in knowing that the words we hold in our hands in the bible are true and can be counted on. I am glad you believe you know you and your dog will be together, and I'm glad that thought may provide you comfort. However, since your knowledge is not based on the certain word of God, there is likely some doubt amid your certainty. Please accept the Gospel (that we are sinners, Jesus was who He said He is, Son of God, that he died for our sins to pay the wrath for them and rose again) and you will KNOW that you KNOW what God says is true because He sends the Spirit to dwell in you and bring these truths to light. It is mighty good comfort in these strenuous times.

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    2. I will cry for my friends and family who don't (if this happens) but my dog is my family too. I don't go to church, I don't believe in every story in the bible, but I DO believe in God and Jesus. I will go were my dog goes. Why would God punish animals for something we did or didn't do? So in THAT way I know me and my dog wil be together, because I will not leave this earth without my dog. My dog fights other dogs, but thats something GOD made dogs with.

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    3. I will cry for my friends and family who don't (if this happens) but my dog is my family too. I don't go to church, I don't believe in every story in the bible, but I DO believe in God and Jesus. I will go were my dog goes. Why would God punish animals for something we did or didn't do? So in THAT way I know me and my dog wil be together, because I will not leave this earth without my dog. My dog fights other dogs, but thats something GOD made dogs with.

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  18. I worry about this all the time!! I have two little doggies that I love so much and they follow me around and protect me all day long!! I don't want them looking for me, wondering when my car is going to drive up and I will walk in with a Wendy's hamburger, going hungry,thirsty,cold and sad!
    I know God loves us and loves animals and he knows the desires of our heart.God see's everything so I was thinking...when people really want something to happen they get everyone together and do a petition! God see's each sorrow, concern and all the helpless loved pets! Each christian that prays and writes online,how worried they are for our pets is enough concerned Christians to say, God saw our "Petition" and He makes all things possible!! But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matt 6:33 So I have to believe my doggies are going too or they go to doggie heaven when I go!

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  19. I know this sounds crazy. But, the thought of my dog being left and starving or being hurt is slowly killing me, literally! I mean for months now, I've laid in bed holding her crying asking God what to do. I have asked several, several preachers about this and no one can give me a straight answer. So, I think to myself, she's getting old, times are getting worse, should I have her PTS? I mean I know that sounds bad, but isn't it better for me to sacrifice, and hurt over the loss, rather than her being here alone, hungry, or mistreated? Am I the only one who feels this way? My husband thinks I'm crazy, but there again, he doesn't know The Lord. Please message me your thoughts. My email is: mnmotes79@gmail.com

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    1. I understand and feel your pain. Just know that Christ will take all your pain and sorrow away. The greater question is how to win your husband over to Christ. This is a greater loss and sorrow if He is left behind! May God soften his heart to be receptive to His calling. God Bless you both.

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    2. Thank You for your reply.....it does worry me that my husband doesn't believe. Although, I think he is starting to pay attention to what's happening in this cruel world and what the bible teaches us to look for. I'm praying he finds his way to The Lord before it's too late. Thank You Again, & God Bless You As Well.

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    3. No Misti you are not alone. I have been asking the Lord nearly everytime I pray, for Him to tell me what to do regarding my cats. I have 6 indoor cats and they are all precious and totally dependent on me to survive. I used to ask the Lord often if it is better to put them down, and if He would warn me of the time to do so before the rapture. I always feel in my spirit that this is MY desire, not His, after praying to him for an answer. I know it is not His Will for us to worry about these things. There is a documentary of a woman who contracted AIDS disease from an Aids afflicted patient while she attended him as a nurse in the hospital. She eventually died from the disease, but was taken to Heaven immediately, while pronounced dead by the doctors attending her during her death. She was only gone to Heaven for about 20 min. while dead, and remembers a huge stairway up to Heaven. She said it was strange to her being someone whom never had pets in her life while alive on Earth, to see all these dogs and cats filliing up all the stairway to Heaven as she assended up the stairway. All of them were happy and full of joy to see her, and they were just waiting on the stairs, as if not able to enter Heaven yet until they met up with their owners-(loved ones) who were still alive on Earth. She said she sensed their awaiting in anticipation to rejoin their loved ones. They all appeared happy & were not needing any food or water or anything to comfort them. They were in their in spirit form already. She kept thinking to herself, why would God show me dogs and cats when I have never even kept pets in my life? She kept wondering while climbing the stairs why she didn't see any people on the stairs, just people's pets. She said that after this moment she was immediately in the presence of Jesus, whom asked her if she wanted to stay there with Him in Heaven or return to her life. She immediately thought of her 16 yr. old daughter who was left without a mother or father, since she was a single mother to her. She told the Lord that even though she would love to stay in Heaven where she was completely healed of her Aids disease, and made whole again, that she just could not leave her daughter all alone & wanted to return to her daughter. She was immediately back in her physical body, and the doctors were reviving her back to life. She realized that she made a decision to live with Aids, in horrible pain and agony again, but she said it was worth it to her to be able to be a mother to her daughter while her daughter was still so young. To her amazement she said by the next day, she was completely healed from the Aids virus! Jesus had healed her for a blessing to her, for willing to be a blessing to her daughter. The medical doctors were also interviewed in this documentary and all called it a miracle from God, including her main doctor whom was an atheist prior to this event. It changed his life, and he became a Christian following this event. ***I always remember this woman's witness, and she was very, very humbled by her experience. She kept saying she didn't know why God would show her cats & dogs in Heaven. I believe it was to be a witness for all of us who see her testimony, who needed to know that God does love our pets, as much as we do, and He understands all our needs. I believe her testimony and I know her experience was meant to comfort us. I still worry about the moments leading up to their death (my pets) while the rapture happens and afterwards, but I have to keep reminding myself that God is in control, and who better to trust than Him, to know our hearts. I think it is very important to pray for your loved ones, pets included, while being very specific in your prayer to ask the Lord to arrange our pets to join us in Heaven on that day. If they die before us, than they are awaiting our reunion with them. That is what I believe in my heart. I hope this helps you Misti. God Bless You!

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    4. I think I have heard about the stairway to heaven, I feel peaceful now..and know that we WILL have our pets with us, past and present! Thanks for posting! :-)

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    5. Hi gretch,

      The stairway to heaven is in Genesis 28:12, also known as Jacob's ladder. Jacob had a dream in which he saw stairs to heaven and angels ascending and descending. the scene had nothing to do with pets or the rapture.

      I hope I will see my pet cats, but there is no "will"...the bible says nothing for sure on the subject. The bible is silent on pets and mainly silent on animals. Though animals will populate the 1000 year kingdom which occurs after the Tribulation and is located on earth, (Isaiah 6). after the 1000 years is up and the old earth melts away and the new earth and heavens is formed...we do not know what the eternal state will hold for us.

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    6. I feel so much better knowing I'm not the only one worrying about our babies!!! I've been sick about it because I do believe we are not long for this earth. I'm just going to have to pray she goes too or that God will direct a good person to come get her. Thank you all for your thoughts!!!

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    7. In Matthew 24:37 (KJV) Jesus says "But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." I don't pretend to know everything He is referring to here, but when Noah was saved from the flood I think that is supposed to be a correlation to the Rapture. Since a lot of animals were saved from the flood along with Noah and his family, could that possibly be taken to mean animals along with people will be taken in the Rapture?

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    8. Hi Jack,

      I am not sure. I do know that God has great regard for and cares personally for His animals. He created them, after all, and installed them in the garden. he gathered them into the ark. In Jonah 4:11, He is speaking with Jonah and asks why He should not have pity on the 120,000 in Nineveh who do not know their right hand from their left (an idiom for "children") AND the many cattle. We do know that in the millennial kingdom there will be animals (Isaiah 11:6-8).

      I trust the Lord to do right by His creation, whatever that entails.

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  20. Misti,

    I am so sorry to hear how much you are wrestling in your heart over what ‘might’ or ‘might not’ happen following the rapture. You are not crazy to have questions about things that seem to have no concrete answers. The mysterious things belong to God alone. Rest assured, God cares more for His creation than we ever could. He knows the end from the beginning. If we can trust God for our salvation (which He orchestrated before time began) - we can trust Him to lovingly care for the innocent companion animals that we share our love and our lives with - including your dog. I, too, have 4 cats that are like my children. We have forged bonds and connections are simply impossible to experience with a human being. God knew what I needed in my life to reveal more of Himself to me and has used animals in a very instrumental way. I believe that is a gift that He does not take lightly.

    I don't personally believe that God would have you prematurely end your precious dog’s life simply because of the unknown. No man knows the day or the hour of Christ's return, and even though we are in the end times, it may or may not happen in our lifetime...and no man can say for sure what God, in His infinite wisdom may be planning for our beloved companions. While we are all waiting and preparing for His return - the more we know and understand God’s character for Who He is and His great love for us, the greater peace we will experience for things we don't have answers to...things most dear to our hearts.

    If God's plan does not include rapturing our pets - rest assured, there are MANY unbelievers who make it their mission to care for animals and rescue animals following disasters and tragedies - much like in Hurricane Katrina, the earthquake in Haiti, and the Japan tsunami...Humane agencies searched diligently for animals that were displaced or trapped in rubble and empty homes and saved animals. If they couldn't find the owners, they made sure the animals received new, loving, homes.

    We so often want to reason with our hearts and our emotions - but God's Word says in Jeremiah 17:9 that our hearts are deceptive and can lead us astray. We need to reason from the truth of God's Word. Philippians 4:6-8 tells us to "be anxious for NOTHING...to bring EVERYTHING to God in prayer, and with thanksgiving we are to show our trust in Him to do according to His will and for His glory...and once we completely release to Him the burdens that we are bearing, THEN His peace, which surpasses ALL understanding will guard our hearts and minds"...the verses then go on to tell us exactly what kind of thoughts we are to think - about everything..."Finally, fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise."

    If your dog has truly reached the very end of her life and is suffering due to a debilitating physical condition, then you might want to consider praying about and making the difficult and permanent decision to euthanize. But if she is still healthy and brings you joy and companionship – then continue to care for her each and every day as you wait for the Lord’s return.

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    1. Thanks so much, Anonymous, for your thoughtful response.

      I replied to you via the email you provided, Misti. Be well and at peace :)

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    2. Misti – Just a further note to hopefully set your heart and mind at ease, Psalm 147:4-5 says, "He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them. Great is our Lord, and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite." For man, the number of the stars is absolutely beyond our capability. Every single star (even those we cannot see) God has not only created and counted, but He is so familiar with them that He has names for each of them, which should give us hope that He knows us personally through and through. He hears us when we call out to Him. Nothing escapes His notice. He is watching over us all through the night when we sleep. He is concerned about us and loves us dearly. If He knows the stars in the sky in such intimate detail (to which we have no emotional bond) – rest assured, He also knows and cares about the other aspects of His creation – including our beloved companion animals.
      Take hope in His Word. Trust in His character. Give Him your fears and doubts. "…Cast ALL of your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7.

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    3. Thank You Anonymous, I am so sorry it has taken me this long to reply. I've been really trying to seek God and what he would have me do in this situation. I just feel like he's not answering me. I know he will in his time. I do appreciate the kind words and the references, I will read those tonight. Thank you for being a reflection of Gods Love and helping me through this. And Thank You Ms. Elizabeth for responding to anonymous. I should have checked it before now, and I apologize again for the delayed response. God Bless You Both.... :)

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  21. The Ethiopian version of the Book of Enoch, which I trust as inspired and the most likely to be faithful to the original text, mentions animals being resurrected in the new creation.
    This like so many other things in this important end times book makes a lot of sense for the following reasons:
    Active respirators (I believe this excludes insect) were never meant die in the original creation.
    Animals die because of the fall of man not of themselves.
    God always does things in a big way and it would be just like Him way to restore all the creatures who were designed for un-ending life in His big beautiful new creation.

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    1. Hi Paul,

      I believe that God has showed us His care for animals, by saving them in the Flood, by telling us the creation groans and wants to be released, and by reversing the curse when all is righted at the end of time. I don't know about specific pets and animals that have lived being resurrected. Only humans are promised that.

      The book of Enoch is not inspired and that is why it is not in the canon.

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  22. You know the way some of you put things into words truly frightens those that need to know the lord and his word so they can joined God in heaven. I also do not know where some think we are all evil. Those people need to check their self, The Lord Loves us all and I believe animals are with out sin and they do go to Heaven. My God is a Loving God and He Loves our animals as well as he Loves us, our animals will not suffer their faith in the Lord is much stronger than any human. They have unconditional Love where as humans do not. Have the faith of a child not a doubting Thomas for all any of us know our animals are some of God soldiers to help us defeat the devil. I believe they are.

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  23. I agree that God ls loving. I'd mentioned that He took care to save them through the Flood. He created them in the first place. However, having the faith of a child in yoru OWN beliefs is not faith. The bible does not say implicitly or explicitly the fate of our pets. When you say you believe "our animals are some of God soldiers to help us defeat the devil" you need to provide a bible verse to go along with it to serve as the basis for your belief. Otherwise it is just a man's opinion, and you know what the bible says about those.

    Animals do not have "faith in the LORD". They are His created creatures (Genesis 1:20, 24), and they suffer the fallen-ness of creation (Rom 8:22), and they serve Him (Num 22:28,Luke 19:30) but they do not have cognitive ability to repent and to have faith in a Savior.

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    1. Revelation 5:13 is pretty clear.

      I have studied the bible extensively for over thirty years, and revelationn5:13 is as blatant a statement as one can get that ALL creatures not only will be in heaven, but they will be singing his praises as well!

      Revelation 5:13New International Version (NIV)

      13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying:

      “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
      be praise and honor and glory and power,
      for ever and ever!”

      So yes, there is indeed biblical proof that Gods redemption includes all of his creatures... Amen :)

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    2. Hi MyFathersDaughter,

      I'm so glad we can discuss scripture. Thanks for bringing that one to mind!

      I'd have to say that even when the bible seems clear, it may not be...sadly I dont' think we can interpret it the way yo are interpreting it. If we did, it would mean a Universalist perspective. In other words, that Jesus redeems everyone and everything. But we know that is not the case because there are people destined for hell and some we know are in hell already, that is what the part of the verse means when it says "those under the earth."

      The verse beings to mind two others, Psalm69:34 "Let heaven and earth praise him, the seas and everything that moves in them."

      And also Romans 8:19-22, "For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. "

      I want just as badly as you to find proof positive that our pets and animals will be in heaven, but after the millennium closes, where there will be animals, (Isaiah 11:6-11) when the eternal state begins there is not a verse which dclcares it one way or another. :( :)

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  24. This has been a concern of mine as well as I began to recognize in world events the immediacy of the coming rapture. I have spent much time pondering and praying over this issue.

    Several months ago I was given a dream about the rapture. In my dream my husband and my granddaughters are with me and my dog is in the backyard barking. As we are being raptured, I offer a simple prayer, "Lord, please take care of my sweet puppy, Layla..." and before I can finish my prayer she is instantly sitting quietly at my feet. I can't tell you what she is actually sitting on because we are all in the air! But she is in a sitting position at my feet.

    Do I know beyond any doubt that this is EXACTLY the way it is going to happen? No! But I do know this: One way or another my beloved dog will be taken care of by my beloved Saviour. I know I no longer have cause to worry about it.

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    1. I had that same dream ten years ago!! I was witnessing the sky rolling up like a scroll.. Like a sideways tornado.. And flashes of light instead of debris.. The believers .. We're being caught up in the air and as the rapture rolled towards me .. My black lab sat at my feet and I hugged him and he was caught up in the air with me and everyone's face radiated like gold.. It was amazing! And when I awoke from the dream I opened to Rev 5:13

      13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying:

      “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
      be praise and honor and glory and power,
      for ever and ever!”

      So yes.. I rejoice that our beloved pets will be captured with us!! Soon and very soon... We are going to see the King !! Amen

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    2. MyFathersDaughter, as much as I'd like to rejoice with you that for sure our pets will accompany us upward in the rapture, we don't confirm truth from dreams. I offered some insight on Rev 5:13 attached to your other comment. The best we can do is wait and trust that the Lord's plan will be perfect and our joy will be complete: no matter what

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  25. Consider Romans 8: 19-23 If we children are revealed and resurected and transformed then so will be the creatures put on incorruptible bodies. The whole creation has been anxiously desiring/ groaning for us to be manifested. Besides if your earthly father would snatch you and your pet out of a burning house how much more would your heavenly father do for you? Have no fear. Peace!

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  26. I know there is a group of people devoted to animals that are agnostic and will not be in the rapture. For a small fee, the reserve a place for your animal (and include pick -up services for the day of the rapture) in the event you go but your pet does not. I have 3 dogs and a cat, so I also think of this. Peace of mind was worth the fee. (which was small as I said). I will see if I can find the link and send it to you all.

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    1. Wow. That is just mind blowing that there is an actual agnostic animal loving group who is willingly taking reservations for a place for your pets once The Rapture takes place. What is interesting about that is, they must either believe there will be a second coming yet have no interest in eternal life and saw an opportunity to make some money or they're just laughing at those who are paying up front for pet care after The Rapture. I must say though, it's a thoughtful gesture, but I can tell you that going to collect people's pets following The Rapture will not only not be possible due to the chaos, pandemonium and violence that will break out preventing them from going around to collect people's pets safely but, collecting people's pets will be the furthest concern from their minds. Following The Rapture, it will be every man for himself. It saddens me deeply that there are such people who are willingly turning away from God's word and refusing salvation through Jesus for if they had an inkling of what's to come should they be left behind, they would be on bended knee repenting and begging God to take them during The Rapture. The horror and despair are beyond comprehension once Tribulation begins. God will remove his hand of protection from this earth and Satan and his army will flood every corner of it. No one will be spared from the evil and torture. So many people have never felt the presence of the Holy Spirit and I pray all of those who are uncertain, agnostic or atheist feel His presence so that knowing there is a God is undeniable and there is a chance that their soul be saved from the fiery pits of eternal hell and damnation. But not to worry, your beloved pets will be in Heaven with you. Our God is a loving God and our pets are free from sin as they do not possess the inherent evils of man. Animals have souls and there is a place for them in Heaven. There will be no animals left anywhere on earth following The Rapture. This is why food will be so scarce and non existent during the times of Tribulation. People will turn on one another in desperation and people will be eating people. It's horrific to even contemplate but, just know that our pets will be saved from this suffering that is to come.

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  27. I believe that all animals will go to Heaven as they do not possess the inherent evils of man and are incapable of sin. Our God is a loving God and He is very well aware of what makes us happy. I can understand the theory of having no memory of our beloved pets in Heaven, but I also believe that our God would never eliminate our pets as if they have no purpose for every animal breathes, and if they breathe, they feel, if the feel, they love, if they love, they are aware, if they are aware, they have a soul, and if they have a soul, they will certainly go to Heaven to live in The Lords Heavenly Kingdom with us. When The Rapture takes place, no animals will be left behind, including our beloved pets. The entire earth will be void of any animals, including our pets. During the times of Tribulation, food will be scarce and in many cases non existent. Common sense would tell us that people will eat the animals for survival, however, with no animals present on earth, the unimaginable will turn commonplace and people will turn to eating people. Christians will be persecuted and tortured for claiming Jesus as their Lord and Savior and for refusing the sign of the beast. Many believers that are left behind will be angry at God for being left and will turn on God. Many Christians will be beheaded and consumed. Satan and his army of demons will take over the earth during this time of suffering and will be in control of the people left behind. It's horrifying to think of what's to come and my soul aches for the non believers and those who will be left behind and all they will endure. Many that do not know God's word and refuse to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior will willingly accept the sign of the beast sealing their fate for eternity. Some believe that hell is in the center of the earth and that the Lake of Fire is the surface of the sun, all of which God created. It makes complete sense as God's word has always said that the Lake of Fire can be seen by all and that this is where Satan and all lost souls will go forever and ever. God does not want to lose one soul, not one, so we must continue to spread the word of God and share about the salvation of knowing and accepting Jesus brings. Time is running out. Repent, pray, read your Bible and continue to share God's word with everyone.

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    1. kikijanel, I agree, it is horrifying to think what is to come. Thanks for the always-good word about repenting and proclaiming the Gospel.

      I HOPE you're right about the pets, but I don't think we can say ABSOLUTELY as you did that "When The Rapture takes place, no animals will be left behind, including our beloved pets." The bible doesnt say, so we can't say.

      Moreover, there will be a judgment of "death by wild beasts of the earth". (Rev 6:8). Death by beasts is one of God's 'four sore judgments" which He has used before (Ez 14:21) or perhaps that particular passage refers to a future judgment only, parallel to Rev 6:8. In any case, there must be animals left upon the earth in order for God to carry out one of His judgments.

      I agree with you, time IS running out. It seems to be accelerating every day.

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  28. I have been thinking about this also and one thing that comes to mind is that God is spirit and we have a spirit. Dogs do not. The bible is spiritually discerned. Our spirit goes to Heaven. If animals don't have spirits how can they go to Heaven. I agree that God can do anything but to assume because of our attachment and deep love for our pets here on earth means they will go to heaven doesn't ring true in the bible. Yes they are created beings but many animals died in the flood. Not all the animals were put on the ark, only two of each kind which meant the rest drowned in the flood. When the plagues of the old testament were on the earth in some cases the animals were stricken with illness, suffered and died. I don't like thinking about it myself as I have a deep bond with all my dogs but I can't get it out of my mind that the possibility exists that God does not bring our pets to heaven. We are to Love only him with all our hearts, soul, mind and strength. Could God maybe, possibly think that we have made idols of our pets because we love them so much we don't want to leave them behind or can't stand the thought of it? These are questions I have been wrestling with for a very long time. It's not all pretty, what the animals had to go through in the past. It may not be pretty what they have to go through in the future. Animals suffer and die, alone everyday, they starve, they get abused, the list goes on. I believe that God does know our hearts and our affection and deep love for our pets. I cry all the time and wonder what will happen to my dogs after the rapture. I pray they won't have to endure the things to come. My prayer has been that if they don't go with us when we get raptured that they would turn to dust. Since the bible is so unclear about our pets I don't want to assume anything or try to re-write the meaning of the scriptures to match my ideals. I don't mean to pop anyone's bubble or depress anyone. I'm just being truthful about my feelings and sharing my thoughts. I have been accused of making my dogs my idol because I wouldn't give them up in the past when I was struggling financially. I wasn't willing to take them to the pound and most of the no kill shelters are full all the time and some have resorted to euthanasia because of the amount of animals. Many of my dogs are timid of strangers and my ex's dog is very protective, they would be very hard to place into a new home. And with the chaos that will be happening whose to say there will be any organization amongst the rescues or room for the quantity of animals that will be left -- again this is if the Lord doesn't bring the animals in our care to heaven. I just can't find anything that I feel proves, without a shadow of a doubt, that animals go to heaven. I wish God would have just said it clearly in his Word. But that's not the case. He used many metaphors and symbolisms which in his day and time were even confusing to them. So, just my thoughts. I hope I didn't offend anyone. If I did I ask for your forgiveness. These are just the things that I have been thinking and wrestling with and wanted to share on this forum.

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  29. Glen

    I'm not of the opinion that I will see my beloved poodle in heaven but my be at the time when God creates a new heaven and a new earth large enough for billions of believers from all of this earths history and also all the animals that have ever lived??
    More importantly I wonder about the children of believers. If they are not at an accountable age will they go to heaven? I think the answer is a positive yes. If yes why do people say only believers go to heaven when very little children are too young to believe yet to heaven? Certainly an unborn child of a pregnant believing woman at the time of the rapture is not left behind.
    Who will look after unbelieving accountable children LEFT BEHIND? Surely this question is more important than pets.

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    1. I am with you on the fact that children who die before an age where they can cognitively understand the effects of their sin and their position in Christ will automatically go to heaven when they die. If anyone is interested, the small book "Safe in the Arms of God" explains this biblically

      https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007FZOZ22/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

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  30. I personally believe in gen God created Adam and he was the caretaker of all the animals. God must heave a lot of care for the animals because not only appointing a caretaker he said A man shall be judged by how he treats his animals. I believe we will see our animals again. They are important to God The Father/The Son /The Holy Spirit. God loves us and takes care of us and his animals through us. He cares for even the sparrows. Trust The Lord with all your Heart, Soul , Body and Mind and give your worries to him. He wants us to have no fear and Happiness. Fear and doubt come from Satan. If he gave you your little pet here. Why wouldn't he let him come too.

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    1. Hi Unknown,

      Thanks for the mention of Adam as caretaker in the Garden. God sure did appoint Adam to name the animals and take care of the Garden,didn't He! :)

      I can't find the verse about God judging us on how well we treat animals. Can you help me out with a verse address? Thanks!

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    2. A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. - Proverbs 12:10

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  31. Animals will be in heaven there not judged like we will be. In the bible God has established a permanent covenant with the animals.
    Can you imagine the world without animals ,or imagine heaven without animals, that would be bad and boring. Common-sense prevails here
    Offcourse animals will accompany us when the time comes.

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    1. Hi George,

      Common sense would indicate that you read all of the essay?

      Because I said above that "We read in Isaiah 11:6-9 that there will be animals walking the earth during the Millennial Kingdom" but "Those verses do not give us any indication one way or another specifically whether any of those animals will be our resurrected pets or whether they will be all newly created animals, or whether they will be animals completely different from any we could conceive of."

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  32. To Tamcan:

    Thanks for your comment. I'm sorry you didn't have time to look up any of the scriptures to back up the information aobut animals having souls etc. When you have time to do that, incluode the verses, and I will take another look at publishing it.

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  33. God loves us all so much that He would not cause us worry and heartache by leaving our pets behind. I'm sure that our pets will either be raptured with us, or will be in heaven waiting for us if they died. Some of the promises in the Bible are made to the animals as well as us, such as Genesis 9:12-17. Various verses state that the whole creation is groaning and longing for the day when sin and evilness are stamped out once and for all. It wouldn't surprise me to learn that the animal kingdom has its own promises from out Lord that we know nothing about.

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