Live and Die by the Living Word
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21
To those who don't believe in God, life on earth is all there is, and so it is natural for them to strive for this world's values - money, popularity, power, pleasure, and prestige. For believers in Christ Jesus, however, to live means to develop eternal values and to tell others about Christ, who alone could help us to see life from an eternal perspective. My whole purpose in life is to speak out boldly for Christ and to become more like him. I can confidently say that for me dying is even better than living, because in death I believe I will be removed from worldly troubles, and I will see Christ face to face (1John 3:2,3).
If you're not ready to die, then you're not ready to live. Make certain of your eternal destiny; then you will be free to serve - devoting your life to what really counts, without fear of death. Paul had a purpose for living when he served the Philippians and others. We also need a purpose for living that goes beyond providing for our own physical needs. Whom can you serve or help? What is your purpose for living? By God's grace, be determined to give the Bible a better place in your life. For heaven and earth will pass away, but God's words will by no means pass away. (See Matthew 24:35. As you abide in Christ and His words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you accordingly. Read John 15:7
I believe that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:15-17) For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
Nobody outgrows the Bible; it widens and deepens with our age. Read the Bible regularly and prayerfully; and you will live and die a blessed life!
Rev. Telema W. Okobi, Minister