Paul the apostle told the
church in Philippi that he knew of those who were preaching the
gospel with varying motives while he was in prison. Some were
preaching with good motives, and some were not. However, Paul
rejoiced in the fact that the gospel of Jesus Christ was being
preached no matter what the motive was behind it, and he hoped that
this preaching might lead to his own salvation both in eternal
pursuits and physically. Paul knew that he might live or die because
of the good news of Jesus Christ, and in chapter one and verse twenty
one he declared the value in either way where we read:
The verse begins, “For to me to live is
Christ,...” Paul begins this verse with the word “For”
which means “because, or on account of, or in conclusion”, and he
addresses the possibility of his living first. He declared, “to
live is Christ”. While Paul had breath in his body, his most
valuable asset in life was his relationship with Jesus Christ. The
very essence of his living was all about Jesus, and there was nothing
in life that could compare to it.
The verse goes on to say, “...and to die is
gain.” In addition to declaring that if he lived he would
continue his wonderful relationship with Christ, Paul stated that
should his life be taken from him, “to die is gain”.
Although there was great value associated to living, Paul knew that
if he died he would go to heaven where Jesus is, and there he would
reside with Him forever. Though living on earth was outstanding for
Paul, to die and be with Jesus was superior.
What
about us? When we examine ourselves would we be able to declare, “to
live is Christ” or would it be something that competes with our
relationship with Jesus? Some might say, for me “to live is having
a fun weekend” or “getting a new car” or “escaping to some
vacation spot”, however for Paul the apostle he surmised “to
live is Christ”. Are we also able to declare, “to die is
gain”? Is our life so involved with Jesus that we know no
matter what pleasurable events, places, people or times come into our
lives, it will pale in comparison to dying and going to be with Him?
Paul saw the advantage of both living and dying, and either way he
knew that Jesus Christ would be with him. As we ponder Paul's words,
may the Lord help us to be able to echo his same words and sentiments
as we continue to live, and may all who know us determine there is
nothing more important in our lives than Jesus Christ and His saving
gospel of grace.
Next
time Paul writes of his struggle between two choices, so read ahead,
and we shall join together then.
Until
tomorrow...there is more...
Look
for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From
Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be
Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the
Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ;
www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at
www.mrzlc.com/bookstore
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