“If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account.” – Philippians 1:22-24
Have you matured in your faith and devotion to Jesus to such a degree that you think like Paul did when he wrote these words from prison? Every follower of Jesus should…
On the one hand, you should have absolute confidence in the glorious eternal future that awaits you in Christ’s presence. Jesus has purchased this eternal inheritance for you with His blood. It is God’s gift of grace given to you through faith in His Son. Christ’s resurrection from the dead is the reason you should not fear death but delight in what lays beyond it, eagerly anticipating the day you pass into His presence forever.
And yet, you should also treasure the work He’s prepared for you to do here on earth beforehand. Never grow weary of doing good works that proclaim your hope in Jesus, reveal the love of Jesus, and teach others to follow Jesus. Grow in your relationship and trust in the Lord so that you too can desire to depart but see also the fruitful labor that awaits you until you depart.
Honestly, this is the very best way to live life here on earth… at complete peace with God’s will for your life. Eagerly looking forward to your future with Jesus while joyfully serving Him today and every day. Not doubting God’s purpose or will but embracing it at every moment. Even when you don’t understand. Even when you’d prefer something else. This is the peace and power that comes from knowing Jesus well and also knowing His disciple-making purpose for your life. If you aren’t yet in this place of peace and clarity, devote yourself to drawing nearer to God. Earnestly seek His will for your life on earth. Regularly meditate on the glories of your eternal life in Him. Grow until you can echo these words of Paul. #FollowJesus