Live

“For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.”
Philippians 1:21 NLT

This verse has been one that I have thought about often. I memorized it as a child and have often quoted it. It is a simple verse, yet it has a profound and life changing meaning. It is a personal declaration of purpose; it provides direction and offers hope. Let me take a moment and talk with you about what I mean.
The verse starts with, “For to me.” Paul is letting us know what he has discovered and also his life direction. If you were to use the phrase “For to me” yourself for your life, what would you be describing? Would you say, “For to me”…money, success, happiness? or I’m not sure!! Paul discovered that meaning comes in “living for Christ.” Paul is saying that if he is going to put the effort into living, then his life needs purpose. He had tried everything else and only in Christ did he find purpose. How about you? What gives you the purpose to live? Are you trying to find your purpose in your work, your family and friends, or maybe in fun and adventure? If it is anything other than Christ, you will find it shallow and empty. I love how Paul ends this verse, “Dying is even better.” Paul is not being morbid, he is simply expressing the hope he has as a Christ-follower. That hope is eternity with his Creator and Savior. The same hope and promise is given to all who have a relationship with Jesus.
I too can say with Paul, “For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” How about you? Is that what you have discovered?

-Pastor Tim