“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:21
The apostle Paul’s entire life was centered around serving and glorifying Christ. When he says, “to live is Christ,” he means that every aspect of his existence—his actions, words, and purpose—is dedicated to following the Lord Jesus. His mission was to share the gospel, encourage fellow believers, and remain faithful no matter the circumstances. At the same time, Paul views death not as a loss but as a gain because it means being united with Christ in eternity. This perspective removes fear from both life and death, as he sees each as an opportunity—life as a chance to serve, and death as the fulfillment of his hope in Christ.
Applying Paul’s words challenges us to live with a sense of purpose beyond personal ambition or temporary success. It means dedicating daily life to honoring Christ—whether through acts of kindness, sharing the gospel, or remaining faithful in trials. It also shifts the way we view hardships, knowing that life’s struggles are opportunities to grow spiritually and demonstrate faith. Today’s verse encourages a fearless perspective on eternity, reminding us that our ultimate home is with Christ. By adopting this outlook, we can approach life with greater courage, joy, and a willingness to put Christ at the center of all we do.