Today’s Theme for Prayer – Jesus Desires to Save Me
How Do I Allow Jesus to Act Freely in Me?
Phil 1:19-26
Indeed I shall continue to rejoice, for I know that this will result in deliverance for me through your prayers and support from the Spirit of Jesus Christ. My eager expectation and hope is that I shall not be put to shame in any way, but that with all boldness, now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me life is Christ, and death is gain. If I go on living in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. And I do not know which I shall choose. I am caught between the two. I long to depart this life and be with Christ, [for] that is far better. Yet that I remain [in] the flesh is more necessary for your benefit. And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound on account of me when I come to you again.
Grace Prayed For
Boldness in witness: Paul desires that “with all boldness, now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body.” Ask for the grace to live boldly for Christ, unashamed of your faith, and allowing Him to be seen through your words and actions.
A Heart Divided: The Longing for Heaven and the Love for Earth
This passage from Philippians is a powerful reflection on the tension between our earthly existence and our heavenly calling. Paul, the author, expresses a deep longing to be with Christ, which he recognizes as “far better” than anything this world has to offer. Yet, he also acknowledges the importance of his continued ministry here on earth, for the sake of his beloved Philippian community.
This resonates with our own human experience. We too may feel torn between the struggles and joys of this life, and the promise of eternal peace with God. We may yearn for heaven, yet recognize the work we still need to accomplish here.
Paul’s words offer us comfort and inspiration in navigating this tension. He reminds us that whether we live or die, Christ is magnified in our bodies. Our lives, our very beings, are vessels through which Christ’s love and grace can shine forth. This is our purpose, our calling, whether we are actively serving others or have gone to be with the Lord.
Paul’s unwavering faith and commitment to his ministry, even in the face of uncertainty and potential suffering, serve as a powerful example for us. He chooses to remain in the flesh, not out of fear or self-preservation, but out of love for his community and a desire to see them grow in their faith.
This passage challenges us to consider how we are living our lives for Christ. Are we using our time and talents to serve others and build up the Kingdom of God? Are we allowing Christ to be magnified in our bodies, through our words and actions?
Let us embrace Paul’s perspective, finding joy in both life and death, knowing that ultimately, our true home is with Christ. May we live each day with purpose and passion, serving others and sharing the love of God, until that glorious day when we are reunited with our Savior.
Growing in Intimacy with Jesus
Cultivate Joyful Perseverance: Despite facing uncertainty and potential suffering, Paul maintains an attitude of joy and hope. This teaches us to persevere through challenges with faith and a joyful spirit, knowing that God is working all things for good. As we learn to trust in His goodness even in difficult times, our intimacy with Him flourishes.
When Time Allows Reflect on the Posts in Library and Musings
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post