Philippians 1:18b–26
It is never easy to choose between two options. When both choices are equally attractive, or equally difficult, a person can feel confused, tense and at times anxious. Paul faces just such a deep dilemma. In verse 21 of today’s study he says, “… for to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” If he dies, he will be at once in the presence of Christ, which for him is the best thing of all. But if he goes on living in the body, he will be able to labour for the spiritual growth of believers and for the gospel. For Paul, death is not a defeat but a great “gain,” because he will see his Saviour face to face. Living for Christ was not merely an idea for him; it was the whole purpose of his existence. It mattered to him because the greatest desire of his life was the glory of Christ. In Philippians 1:20 he says, “It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honoured in my body, whether by life or by death.” To go on living meant an opportunity to show the character, the power and the grace of Christ to the world.
Living for Christ mattered to Paul because his life was directed by Christ, given over to Christ, and centred on serving others. He placed the growth of the church and obedience to Christ above his own wishes. So Paul is not selfish. He knows that the believers in Philippi need him alive. He says, “… I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.”
The highest goal of our life is to give Him glory and to rejoice in Him. Christ must be lifted up in every situation — whether we are sick or well, whether we succeed or fail, our life must give glory to Christ. For Paul, life was an opportunity: an opportunity to serve Christ. He wanted to live in order to carry others forward “in the joy of faith.” Are you afraid of death? If Christ is the Master of your life, then death is gain for you. But as long as you are in this world, God has a great purpose for you. That purpose is to glorify Christ and to serve others. Think about it today: what does your living mean?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, be the one goal of my life. Whether I live or die, may You be glorified. Make me devoted to the service of others. Amen.