For me to live is...What?

“For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” – The Apostle Paul

Is the cup half full or half empty? Here lies the simple test of “are you an optimist or a pessimist.” How do you perceive the world?

Sure, we default to one view or the other, but it is your choice on how you see things. Do you tend to see the world being against you? Or do you see the potential around you? Do you complain a lot, or do you rejoice a lot?

These can be tough questions, and I have to admit that at times I tend toward the pessimistic side. I’ve struggled with that and know that it is not a helpful way to see the world. Why? Because it discounts the fact that God is alive and in control.

I begin to see the world as if everything depends on me and this leads to a sad outlook on life. In reality, God is working in marvelous ways that I can’t even comprehend.

In Philippians 1:12-30 we see the Apostle Paul describe what’s happening in his life as he writes one of the most joyful books in the Bible. Paul is in prison not knowing if he will be released or put to death. Prominent leaders in the church in the church are against him and trying to afflict him.

Yet Paul finds reasons to rejoice and encourage others. He sees his imprisonment as a benefit for the Gospel, and he even witnessed to the imperial guard. He saw the opposition of the leaders as an opportunity for the Gospel to be discussed far and wide.

And we see the source of his optimism is based on his relationship with Jesus Christ. No matter his circumstance, he is excited for the opportunity to obey God. If he is to live, then he will live joyfully in obedience to Christ. If he dies, he will be in the presence of his Savior. Someone who looks at life like this cannot be defeated.

What do you live for? How would you complete this phrase: for me to live is ­­­­­­­­_____________ and to die is ________________? Be honest!

“How would you fill in the blanks? If you say ‘to live is money’, you must say ‘to die is to leave it all behind’. If you say ‘to live is fame’, you must say ‘to die is to be forgotten’. If you say ‘to live is pleasure’, you must say ‘to die is to lose it all’. But if you can join Paul in saying ‘to live is Christ’, you can also join him in saying ‘to die is gain’.” –  Ellsworth, R. Opening up Philippians (pp. 28–29).

Do you desire a single focus as Paul had? I do! When we lose sight of the love of Christ we can get discouraged. But when we fix our eyes on Jesus, see what great love He has for us and how undeserving we are of His grace, it puts things in the proper perspective.

It is my prayer “that your love for Christ may abound more and more.”