For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell.
(Philippians 1:19-22, NKJV)
I do so love this book! So many great messages of affirmation, conviction, and encouragement.
Today’s verses do all at the same time for me.
First, I’m encouraged when I remember how God uses the prayers of my brothers and sisters to “deliver me.” And I know when I pray for them, God delivers them as well—maybe not out of the pain, but through the pain.
Second, I’m convicted. I ask myself, how boldly do I share the good news of Christ’s gift of salvation? Are there times when I’m ashamed? I wish I could say I speak with great confidence, never ashamed. But that wouldn’t be true. I pray that each of us who follows Christ will boldly proclaim the truth of the Gospel.
Finally, I’m affirmed when I remember that living for Christ in this world brings God glory.
And then one last thing: That verse that says “to live is Christ … to die is gain”? I couldn’t agree more! I long for the day when I leave this frail, weak body and stand before my Lord and Savior. But I do know—and I’ve said this before—every day God wakes me out of bed is a day He can use me to serve Himself and others.
So although there are many, many days I’d choose being with Christ, I can live with confidence that I’m still supposed to live on in the flesh.
May I encourage you today? Live each and every day with a full-heart desire to serve God, knowing that you’re being lifted by my prayers and the prayers of your brothers and sisters.
Enjoy this Lord’s day!
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