- “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21 NLT
- “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:7 NLT
When studying the Bible, it is easy to tell that Paul lived a life worthy of emulation. His stance for Christ and passion for outreach was intense, despite his terrifying journey for the Gospel.
At times when charged with our chosen faith, we begin to question our decision and go the extra length of finding alternatives to ease our pain. The story of Paul inspires we believers eager to live unashamed for Christ. (Romans 1:16)
Individually, our cases may not be like Paul’s, but we share similar trials and occasionally feel challenged by the situations we find ourselves. In living daily through trials, there is a chance of throwing in the towel – because nothing makes sense or is worth the challenge.
“To Live Is Christ and to Die is Gain.” – Philippians 1:21
Whenever this verse comes to mind, I wonder how bad things must have been for Paul and how he maintains such enthusiasm through that challenge. The challenges are not what define us, but shape us and the strength of our faith in God.
In Philippians 1:20-21, Paul said “For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Paul considered his pain not worthy to hinder him from his reward in Christ. This thought made his passion for the things of God adequate for the trials he faced. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges that come daily. In such times, we tend to forget that we have an Advocate (Holy Spirit) to comfort us promised by Jesus. The purpose of the comforter is to show us love and bring the presence of God with us, wherever we go. The Holy Spirit kept Paul going in trying times.
Staying firm in persecution or when everything around you is failing is a challenging test of faith, but be assured that when in service for God, He is there to guide and help us out when we rely on him. The Bible reassures us that the confidence we have in approaching God lies in us asking anything according to his will because he hears us. 1 John 5:14.
In summary, while running this race, we may be faced with different challenges and maybe put in extreme situations that put us in cases that can undermine our faith and stand with Christ. However, we should always have a glimpse of hope as we seek for comfort from God; that way we are encouraged in downtimes. We should be alive in Christ and be dead to the world. Therein, the trials of the world cannot overcome us because of the covenant we have in Christ. Have a blessed week.
David Kuko 