A Life of Service
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 torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ—which is far better— 24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 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 my coming to you again, your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound. (Philippians 1:22-26)
Continuing from yesterday’s declaration of verse 21, “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain,” Paul elaborates on his current dilemma in verses 22 to 24. On one hand, continuing to live for Christ, to live on in the flesh,” has led to “fruitful work,” meaning that he could see Christ working through him in the lives of others. His earthly life had a meaningful purpose that brought him joy. But, on the other hand, as seen in verse 23, Paul knows how much better life would be in heaven, “I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ—which is far better.” Paul is very conflicted, “and I don’t know which one I should choose.” As Anders states, “Being with Christ appeals to him. It would certainly be an improvement in his present circumstances. Yet he places the needs of his readers ahead of his desire. Staying lets them benefit from his ministry.” We see this at verse 24, “but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.” He will strive to be released from prison for he knows that it would benefit the believers while he is alive. He still has a purpose on this earth.
Therefore, in verse 25, instead of seeking out his own personal desires, Paul puts the needs of the other believers above his own, “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.” The end goal of this earthly ministry is to see the Christians grow. This is where Paul derives his joy from, not from his current circumstance, but from the growing relationships of other believers with Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate source of joy. Therefore, if you are a believer, may we have such a selfless attitude like Paul, having a life of service, pursuing God’s will over our own desires, and help one another grow in a deeper relationship every day with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Blessings,
Isaac De Guzman
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