Live or Die

Read 2 Kings 13

Read Philippians 1

"For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Sounds like a win/win situation for the Christian. And it is. Not that living (and dying) the Christian way is always easy or care-free, but it is a blessing, a gift from God, a victory.

Paul makes it clear that his task is to preach Christ crucified. That's all he desires to know. It's all he desires to do. Yet, in his prison cell, we can hear with the Philippians his humanity and his weary tone underneath his words. Paul longs for his heavenly home. He longs for that divine and blessed rest. He longs to be free of the chains and the pains. With a sure and solid faith that does not fear death, he knows it will be far better for him to be with the Lord.

But, apparently it was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would remain on this earth for a time and labor for Christ some more. He knew that this would mean "fruitful labor," his hard work helping and benefiting the Philippian church. So, he was determined to remain, to work, and make good use of the time.

We are in the same situation as Paul. We long for our heavenly home, yet we find ourselves still here on earth. Now, we maybe aren't longing for our heavenly home as intensely because we maybe are suffering like Paul, maybe aren't near the end of our time here, aren't looking for a release from chains. Maybe we aren't wishing we could die and receive that "gain," that heavenly home Christ won for us. But maybe someone we know is in that situation. Maybe someone we know is wondering if it is ok to wish they were dead and with Christ. Maybe someone is wondering why God hasn't taken them yet, wondering what God wants them to do with this extra time they seem to have. Philippians 1 would be a perfect thing to share with them.

And us? Well, even if we don't feel it as intensely as Paul does, we still feel it. Especially when we are sad, depressed, hurting, frustrated, feeling guilty, and disliking the mess that our lives, our families, or our world are in. Yes, it is better to be with the Lord. And you will be, when God calls you home and not before. But if you are reading this blog with human eyes, then apparently God has left you here to do some good work, fruitful work for Him.

Today is a gift. An opportunity. God is with you. He will strengthen you, as you live a life worthy of the Gospel of Christ. Thanks be to God!

Ask Yourself:

I still fear death. Why? What gives me peace when I am afraid?

I am still here. Why? What gives me hope, purpose, and strength for living?

How can I share this hope and strength with others?

Pray:

Gracious Heavenly Father, thank you for the redemption you have given me in your Son, Jesus Christ. Grant that I may ever cling hopefully to the forgiveness and everlasting life given to me through his bloody cross and empty tomb. By your Holy Spirit, strengthen me to make good use of my time in this life, that I may live a life worthy of the Gospel of Christ, and that my labor might be fruitful for your glory alone. Amen.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!