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To Live is Christ; To Die is Gain
Read: Philippians 1:12-26
Turn on the evening news and you’ll be bombarded with reports of tragedy after tragedy. Natural disasters, school shootings, and reports of war and terrorism fill our television screens night after night. We don’t like to talk about death but, sadly, it is all around us. The fear of death consistently ranks as one of the top fears amongst Americans. In the world’s eye, to die is the ultimate end. Through Christ, we have a different perspective. Death is not the end, but the beginning of life in heaven with Christ for eternity. Death is not something to be feared. I Cor 15:54b-55 states, “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” Jesus is victorious and conquered death. In heaven there are no more tears, mourning or suffering and we are made perfect and complete in Christ. It’s our home, our ultimate destination. In heaven we will see Jesus face to face, be reunited with loved ones, and experience indescribable peace and joy. Heaven is the completion of what we were created for. It’s the beginning of the adventure- the stepping into eternal glory and ultimate communion with God.
Paul had a healthy view of life and death. He knew that he would be delivered eventually either through release from imprisonment or by being put to death. Paul was not afraid to die. To him death was gain because he would get to go to heaven, his eternal home. It was the moment he would enter a perfect eternity and communion with God. Although, Paul knew that life in the body would result in fruitful labor and the opportunity to serve others and bring glory to God on earth. He was torn between the two: to leave this earth and be united with Christ in heaven forever or to remain in the body. Regardless of what happened, his focus was to bring God the glory. Although he looked forward to life in heaven, he knew his purpose on earth was not yet completed. He knew that it was important for him to continue the work he was doing on earth, including encouraging the Philippians in their progress and joy in the faith.
Reflect: Read Philippians 1:12-26 again and reflect on the following questions:
- What is your view of life and death? If you have a fear of death, what is causing this fear? Give your worries and concerns to God because he cares for you. Ask him to take away any fears you have and replace them with his perfect peace.
- Paul knew God had a purpose for him on this earth. He also has a purpose for you. How is God using you? What purpose does He have for you on this earth? He’s placed you where you are for a reason. Think of the people God has placed in your path and how He can use you in their lives.
Remember: Weekly memory verses
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Phil 1:21 - NIV)
Going further- Think about how God can use you in the lives of those around you. Pray that He would use you this week and that your focus would be to bring Him glory in all that you say and do.
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