August 31, 2022

Philippians 1:18b-26 (HCSB)
Yes, and I will rejoice 19 because I know this will lead to my deliverance through your prayers and help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ. 20 My eager expectation and hope is that I will not be ashamed about anything, but that now as always, with all boldness, Christ will be highly honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
Living Is Christ
21 For me, living is Christ and dying is gain. 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am pressured by both. I have the desire to depart and be with Christ —which is far better — 24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. 25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that, because of me, your confidence may grow in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.

Mark Stephens
I read something in my preparation for this that hit home. Paul’s prison stay in these verses was not his last one, but he didn’t know that…. Sometimes we read verses, chapters, and books and get a little desensitized to some situations because we know the outcome. A real “Paul is going to be alright this time” attitude. Focusing on the fact that Paul has no idea of his earthly outcome, and he was still okay with that. His servant heart was in check. He was grateful in his circumstances. Paul’s focus? Salvation and bringing others to Christ. Showing gratitude for his salvation and praying and working for the redemption story of others. As the former, treacherous “Saul”, Paul knows the beauty of redemption and is living it out. The remainder of Paul’s time on earth was in preparation for the next life, as he sees it. If he makes bail, he wins. If he is found guilty and is put to death, all the more a winner. Question: Have you found the beauty in the ashes of your story or situation? Have you used them as Paul did?