Philippians 1:20
“According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by life, or by death.
Philippians 1:21
For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.
Philippians 1:22
But if I live in the flesh, this [is] the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
Philippians 1:23
For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Philippians 1:24
Nevertheless to abide in the flesh [is] more needful for you.”
Isn’t it interesting that the Apostle Paul had a desire to depart and to be with Christ which he said is far better? And the Apostle Paul also said dying is gain and living is Christ. Then he said it was more needful for others that he abide in the flesh.
I must ask myself, “Is the Lord Jesus Christ truly the one that I am living for?” And if I am living for the Lord does that show up in my lifestyle and words uttered by my lips when I am with others by whom I am obviously needed?
We talk about revival and we yearn for America to turn around but the obvious question would have to be “Why?” Why do I want America to turn around and what does it mean for America to turn around? Is my focus the work of the Lord Jesus Christ and others or am I concerned about my comfort? And if I want revival so badly why don’t I spend time praying “in my closet”, fasting, reading, searching, studying, memorizing and meditating on the word of God? Do I want a revival or do I want others to have a revival? Do I want the Lord Jesus Christ to be my Lord or do I want that for others?
I love the Gospel of John and I have read it many times. John chapter 14 is especially precious to me.
John 14:1
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
John 14:2
In my Father’s house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
John 14:3
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also.”
Maybe I should think about how much I really want to see my Saviour!