Devotion
•
The Promises of God: Part CCCXI
Author
Timothy Laughlin
Published
Sep 29, 2025
Tags
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. 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. And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again. Philippians 1:21-23
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. 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. And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again. Philippians 1:21-23
The apostle Paul was trying to make a decision either to die and enter Heaven's splendor or stay on the earth, even in chains if necessary to further the gospel of Jesus Christ!
We would do well to have the same fervent desire to spread the gospel as Paul had, choosing to stay and minister to those He had discipled instead of dying in the Lord. At 77, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and understand what Paul was thinking, maybe it's better to die than to stay and suffer!
Paul made the right decision to stay and continue his life's work, even though at the end of his life, he was in prison, and his earthly reward was execution! We should have the same zeal for the gospel as Paul had and finish the race that he had won.
Nevertheless, to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again. Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel. Philippians 1:24-27
Your servant in Christ, Timothy Laughlin
Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Related Writings
Contact us
If you have any questions about our writings or the ministry, please let us know below.
We will not share or sell your information.
P.O. Box 162932
Fort Worth, TX 76161