Philippians 1:18b-24

There are many times when we have to choose between what we want and what is necessary. This is a trait that in our American culture is not easy. We have a social mentality that we will have what we need and we deserve what we want… that’s why so many people are under the yoke of the almighty Visa and American Express and why so many others labor endlessly to no end.

Paul writes that for him, if he lives it is a good thing because he then get’s to do God’s work and if he dies it’s good also because he will be next to his Lord Jesus Christ. He then admits that he preferes to be with the Lord but he knows that it is best that he remain in a place where he can be fruitful.

When it comes to choosing what you want and what is best, how do you do it? Paul said, “I desire to depart to be with CHrist” but then goes on to declare “it is more necesary for you that i remain”.

Are you choosing the greater good of others or for yourself?

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.

-Philippians 1:18b-24