To Live is Christ ...

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

Philippians 1:21

These profound words of Paul are what I want on my tombstone (although I don't plan to need one). I made this decision a few years ago, when I came to greatly comprehend and appreciate his words, and to feel the substance of this reality.

Paul could only gain this kind of confidence through experientially living out the reality of the abundant life in his life and ministry.The Lord supplied a full measure of the Holy Spirit as a result of the prayers offered up by the people of the churches (I Thess. 5:25 and 2 Thess. 3:1). We know that "the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16), and with that prayer comes boldness before the throne of grace.

Additionally, the experience of that 'supply' of the Holy Spirit produces faith. When we experience God's providential care during the times of testing in our lives, "faith upon faith" is built up in our lives - the remembrances of all those times when God has miraculously provided when we thought all was lost. This increase in faith built over time produces a strong hope and boldness in our relationship with the Lord. Our relationship with Him grows into a rich and full experience which draws us closer and closer to Him. It is to Him we immediately and instinctively learn to turn for guidance and wisdom.in every aspect of life.

No matter what the circumstances we have learned to rely and trust and hope in the Lord, bringing joy and peace into our lives as a constant state, knowing that He is nearer than a brother at all times.

"now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain."  Indeed.

Royal Heir