I just finished reading Philippians 1:18b-21 this morning during my time of “Coffee with the Lord”… This section of Philippians in many translations is introduced with the last clause of verse 18: “YES, AND I WILL CONTINUE TO REJOICE!” It sets the tone for this entire section that emphasizes Paul’s resolve to rejoice even in the face of an uncertain future! It becomes abundantly clear in this section that Paul knew that his imprisonment could end in death. But that did not steal his joy. Here is a man who couldn’t care less what happened to him, what people said about him, or even if he lived or died. All he wanted was for Christ to be glorified in his life:
“I rejoice… Yes, and I will rejoice! For I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance! It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. FOR TO ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST, AND TO DIE IS GAIN.”
Reading Paul’s words today reminded me of this event in my pastoral ministry: It was early Monday morning and the sirens wailed in our small town. It was an ambulance and somehow I felt within that someone in our church was involved. A few moments later the telephone rang. It was the hospital – Carl, a young businessman from our community had died unexpectedly. I arrived at the hospital to find Linda, his wife, in shock, facing and uncertain future. Linda had one small child, was expecting another, and now her husband and the father of her children was gone. Linda told me, “Pastor, I can’t explain the peace and joy I feel! I’m just going to trust Jesus!” And she did. With grace and dignity she faced the coming months. God sustained her, provided for her, and helped her through. She is happily married again today. She kept the joy of the Lord and a sweet spirit. She proved you can rejoice in the face of an uncertain future.
What a way to live! What a way to deal with an uncertain future! You can put your present and your future in the hands of God! You can determine that regardless of the outcome of events God will be glorified. You can live a life of “Rejoicing in the Lord!” regardless of circumstances! The purpose of life is not to make money, not to settle into some comfortable existence, not to make a name for yourself. Our purpose is to serve Christ! Declare it today (and mean it)… “FOR ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST!”
Coffee With The Lord 