To Die Is Gain

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

Philippians 1:21

We’ve looked at what Paul meant by “to live is Christ,” now what did he mean by “to die is gain“?

For many of us, the truth is pretty shocking.

Paul flat out says he wants to “depart and be with Christ, for that is far better” (Philippians 1:23).

That’s right, Paul says he wishes he could die and be with Jesus than stay on earth . . .

For the disciple, there is a magnetic pull toward Jesus.

Just like gravity makes water run downhill, our desires and affections always flow to Jesus.

This doesn’t simply mean we’re focused on an eternity in heaven above everything else, though. Instead, it means we’re obsessed with being on Jesus’ mission.

What Does “To Die Is Gain” Actually Mean?

That is why Paul ultimately decides that “to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account” (Philippians 1:25–26).

You see, the way of Jesus is the way of service.

Like he said in Mark 10:45, “For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many.”

While dying is and being with Jesus is gain, it is an even greater gain to embody Jesus and become more like him right now.

Paul gave everything to help Christians like the Philippians in their “progress and joy in the faith.” He lived in a way that made his life “ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus.”

This ignites a blazing fire in my spirit to live like this!

What would it look like to have hearts so on fire for Jesus that our soul aim in life (and death) was to follow his way?

Today, we have the opportunity to embrace the way of Jesus, just like Paul.

Let’s join him in saying”to die is gain” and live it out!

Today’s devotion by Jordan Loftis, author of The Men With Bare Feet and host of The Bible Better Podcast.