To Die is Gain

   

The apostle Paul made an interesting statement when he wrote to the church at Philippi. He said "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21). We do not usually hear people talk about death in this way. Usually, death is looked upon as the ultimate end or as a reason to mourn. Paul, however, looked at death as a victory. As a matter of fact when he wrote to these Christians at Philippi he said he was torn between the desire to live and the desire to die.  He personally would rather die, and his only desire to stay was to help his brethren. Paul wrote, "For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you" (Philippians 1:23). Why is it the Paul would rather choose death than life? Why could Paul say "to die is gain"? The reason death was considered gain is because he preceded that phrase by saying "For to me, to live is Christ". Because Paul lived for Christ and spent his life bearing fruit for Him, he was able to say that death was gain. Paul understood that he was going to live in peace with God forever. Why? Because he lived for Christ on earth. Can you say the same? Can you look at death as gain? If you live for Christ then you can.

 

Garrett Bookout

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