This has been my favorite verse since I first started reading God's word in 2005. I think it is the place we should all desire to be at in our walk with Jesus, because it shows complete surrender to our will.
Today I want to share the verses that follow this one and show the importance of our passion for growth and maturity in Him. Verse 22 says, “But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better.” See, Paul's focus is on being fruitful and doing more work for Christ so people hear the Good News. As he continues this chapter he shares this in verses 23-24, “I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live.”
The thought of dying, and it being better for himself, was in his thoughts but he knew what Jesus showed him out weighed what he wanted because of his love for Christ. See as we grow and surrender our will we must understand that we are not just living to have more days for ourselves, we are living to show the fruit of our salvation and shine His light. Verse 25 is what has been on my heart since accepting the Lord in 2005 because we as believers should be different and live a life full of joy and hope because of the resurrection of Jesus. “Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith.”
We need to share the Good News with everyone and be willing to show the fruit that is given to us so all believers live a joyful life and their faith will be steadfast. This will help us live verse 27 out and keep our purpose alive. “Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.” Nothing we do for the Lord is useless so keep shining and knowing that we all matter to God and our love and passion can help someone have joy and hope in this crazy world. Amen