(The following is the September 3 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Philippians 1 and pay close attention to verses 21-26.)
Christians should eagerly live their days on Earth serving Christ. They should also anticipate eternal life in the presence of Christ. Paul lived aware of both, and they sometimes pulled him in opposite directions: “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ – which is far better – but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake” (vv. 21-24). Paul’s dilemma is understandable. If we know Christ is using us for his purposes on Earth, it is good to continue serving him as long as he allows. But when we grow weary, we understand Paul’s longing to be with Christ.
How confident are we in saying, “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”? Are our lives characterized by faithful ministry and service so that “to live is Christ” describes us? Are our minds transformed by him so that we think as Christ does? Do we see the world through his eyes? Does God’s love compel us to act in ways that cause others to see Christ in us?
A day will come for believers when we will experience firsthand that “to die is gain.” We will cast aside all earthly woes and enter the glorious, eternal presence of Jesus. We can’t imagine how incredible that day will be. It will surpass anything we dreamed of beforehand.
There is work to be done here for God’s kingdom, so like Paul, we will fulfill our purpose here until God calls us home. It is a privilege to live now for Christ. May we live joyfully for him while anticipating the day we see his face.
Next Step:
How do you live for Christ? How often do you think about the day you’ll see him face to face? Thank him for the opportunity to serve him now and for the assurance of eternal life in his presence.
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