+DEV+ To Live Is Christ

Date: January 24, 2013 8:54 PM
Topic: +DEV+  To Live Is Christ

To Live Is Christ

"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21)
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58

We all know that it is not natural to want to die. In fact, we rush to the aid of people who want to kill themselves because we know that something is seriously wrong. We all know we are going to die, and yet we will exhaust every effort to deny and fight this great enemy. In kindness, God assigns suffering and sin to our earthly lives. They reconcile us to thoughts of what is inevitable because, for the believer, to die is to be in God's presence at last.

Our sin sweetens thoughts of death for ourselves and those we love who die in Christ. Just think about that as you read Paul's words, "to die is gain." Can you fathom what it will be like to enjoy God without anger, bitter thoughts, pride, selfishness-all those sins which once overwhelmed you? Fear is replaced by wonder when we imagine the glorious things that are prepared for us and the outrageous joy of bowing at the feet of our dearest Friend and Savior, singing and shouting "thank you" for all eternity. We'll be free from sin at last, resting in the arms of our truest Friend.

Insight: "Happy christian! His toils and sufferings will soon end; ...he who has loved and redeemed him will welcome him." (John Newton)




Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.