Family Devotion: Joy In Living & Dying
- Andy Roberson
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
📖 READ IT
'for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as 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. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. ' - Philippians 1:19-26 ESV
'And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, ' - Hebrews 9:27 ESV
🔍 DISCOVER IT
Most people think joy depends on good circumstances. But the Apostle Paul wrote Philippians while he was in prison. Even though he faced uncertainty and the possibility of death, he spoke about joy. How could he do that? Because his joy was rooted in Christ and not in his circumstances. Today, as believers, we can have joy both in living and dying because Jesus is with us in both.
💬 ASK IT
What does it mean to honor Christ? How can we honor Him at school, work and with friends?
As a follower of Christ, do you see your goal to be successful, comfortable or popular in this world or is your purpose to glorify and lift up Jesus?
🧭 LIVE IT
Verse 20 is a very famous verse in the bible but talking about this verse may feel uncomfortable. Paul teaches us that Christians do not have to fear death because of Jesus. Paul knew that in his life or in his death, that Jesus was with him. Why? Because Jesus is Lord over both life and death. How can reading this verse bring you confidence and hope knowing that one day everyone will face death?
In verse 22, Paul understood that as long as God have him life, he still had work to do for the Lord. He wanted his life to produce spiritual fruit (or fruitful work). What are some examples of our spiritual fruit (fruitful work) as we live our lives?
In verses 24-26, Paul believed that God was keeping him on earth because he could help and encourage other believers. His life was not just about himself. God calls us to bring joy, encouragement and hope to others. One of the greatest ways we can serve Christ is by helping others grow in their faith. How can we live our life this week to help and/or encourage someone else?
🙏 PRAY IT
Father, thank You for the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Help us live each day in a way that honors You. Fill us with Your Spirit so that we can serve others and bring them joy. When we face difficulties, remind us that our future is secure in Christ. Thank You that whether we live or die, we belong to You. Help our family trust You, love You and follow you faithfully, in the name Jesus, Amen.