With Christ Is Better

Scripture: Philippians 1:22-24

Reflection:
Paul faced an extraordinary tension. To remain alive meant more opportunities to serve Christ and His people. Yet to depart this life and be with Christ was “very much better.” Paul did not regard death as the end of his hope or as a consolation prize. His greatest desire was to be with Jesus.

Christian hope does not pretend that death and suffering are pleasant. Instead, it trusts Jesus’ promise that death does not have the final word. For the believer, life is held securely in Christ, and death brings us into His presence. Either way, we belong to Him.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, strengthen my hope in Jesus. Help me live faithfully in this life and look forward with confidence to being with Christ forever. Amen.

Application:
How does the promise of being with Christ change the way you think about the future?