Exploiters vs. Embracers
To Live is Christ – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Philippians 1:15-26

Key Verse: Philippians 1:21

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Following up on yesterday’s devotional, I want to look at the formula of courage.  To live life relaxed in God’s will takes courage.  To be able to say: To live is Christ and to die is gain takes courage!  How do we develop that faith and enjoy that courage?  How did Paul have such courage?

Let’s look at verse 19: “for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ…”  These words give us the answer to Paul’s relaxed faith and courage.  First, Paul trusted in people’s prayers for him.  He is requesting that they pray for him, asking God to impart the courage needed to relax in God’s plans and purpose for Paul’s life.  Let’s take that step by asking others to pray for us in this specific way.  Tell a few people that you want to live relaxed in God’s plans, having courage to trust them even if it means death.

Secondly, Paul’s reliance was on the Spirit.  It would be by the Spirit that Paul would enjoy “sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or death” (Philippians 1:20). Join me in believing that we can enjoy this same courage.  No need to live in fear or stress.  Our attitude of relaxation is based on leaving God in control!

Father, I know you, indeed, are in control.  I know that you love me and only want the best for my spiritual journey.  I will relax in your today.  In Jesus’ name, amen.