Resources by Topic: Animals

Jim Abernethy, a well-known diver and underwater photographer, works primarily with sharks. Years ago in the Bahamas, Jim encountered a large tiger shark he named Emma. 

Our life in God's presence will be fullness of joy. Upon our deaths, we’ll be face to face with goodness Himself, and we’ll be able to ask Jesus our questions directly. And for now, we can rest in His character: His goodness, mercy, kindness, and abundant grace. 

Having lost a beloved dog to disease, I can empathize with the pain you are feeling over the impending death of your furry friend. Death is not a normal part of our life, at least not the life God wanted for us. I suppose that’s why it hurts so much.

God put everything under Adam’s dominion and stewardship. Genesis 3 tells us God cursed the whole earth as a result of Adam’s sin. That Curse had an ongoing dramatic effect on both humankind and animals, as part of creation. 

Randy and Greg Laurie talk about what happens to pets when they die? Might there be talking animals in Heaven?

Two years ago, the arrival of our Double Doodle puppy, Gracie, brought new energy and joy into our home, during a very difficult season of our lives. Together, Nanci and I thanked God for His goodness and how He reveals Himself in His creation. Every time Gracie made us laugh, which was many times a day, together we saw the delightfulness of her Creator and ours.

We’ve received many notes from readers over the years, who recently lost or are anticipating the loss of their animals, and are grateful for the perspectives I shared about pets—especially after the deaths of our Dalmatian Moses and our Golden Retriever Maggie.

Randy explains his thoughts about this question and talks about how Romans 8 can be applied to help us understand the relationship between animals that live on the current earth, and ones that will live on the New Earth.

Randy talks about whether there will be animals on the New Earth. 

The bottom line is we don’t know how that will all work out, but we do know that God is good, and that we can trust Him.

Randy, I understand that you and I have the same affection for animals under our care as I’ve read an article you wrote concerning animals in Heaven. Is spaying and neutering our pets allowed by our faith? Personally, I don’t like the idea as it seems to control and alter what God has designed/created.

I am listening to Heaven on audio. While listening to the chapter on animals, I started to think about my strong distaste for snakes. I often use the word "hate" when talking about them. 

It's important to remember there is a big distinction between animals and people, even when it comes to euthanasia. Human beings are uniquely made in God’s image and although animals are a beloved creation, they are not.

"I believe that by caring for animals we are also caring for humans. We are providing them with God’s gift of emotional support and friendship through taking care of their pets. Do you think God approves of careers in veterinary medicine?"