Today’s devotion is based on Philippians 1:12-30: Joy in the Journey: Week 2 (WATCH HERE)
Philippians 1:18-26 Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 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. 20 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. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 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! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
Decisions that involve two good choices can sometimes be the most challenging. When there is one bad choice and one good choice, that makes it pretty easy. But two good choices? That can be a challenge.
We can go to Disney or Universal Studios…two good choices.
We can go swimming or go for ice cream…two good choices.
We can have a steak for dinner or shrimp pasta…two good choices.
We can keep living or die…two good choices?
At first glance we might say, “I don’t want to die. That’s not a good option. I want to keep on living.”
I don’t think many would disagree with you. However, the Apostle Paul lays out both as good options.
As he is in prison, he expects to be released, but is not certain. As he goes through suffering, he envisions life with the Lord in heaven. Yet he knows by living he has opportunity to continue to serve the Philippians and others with the Gospel. This too would be a good thing.
Sometimes when we are going through suffering and pain, we see good and bad options. Perhaps it goes something like this:
“I really want this hardship to end” (That would be a good option.)
“I pray this doesn’t last too long” (Longer suffering would be a bad option.)
“I don’t want to die.” (Death would be a bad option.)
Here’s what we know about suffering. God has a purpose in all of it. So, we have three good options in regard to our suffering, pain and hardship.
First, God could choose to bring an end to the suffering and we are able to move forward in life without the worry or stress about it. This would be a good option.
Second, God could choose to allow the suffering and pain to endure and he will teach us to rely on him and also perhaps use our suffering as a witness to encourage others. This would be a hard, but good option.
Third, God may choose to allow the relief of our suffering to be death and entry into heaven. This would be a good option.
If the Lord allows our life to continue, we get more opportunities to live and share the Gospel. If the Lord allows our life to end, we get the experience of enjoying the joys of heaven. This is a great experience.
When we can see even death as a good thing, we are beginning to see Christ in every circumstance. And when we see Christ in every circumstance, all the options that are available are good.
Apply: What is the challenge you are enduring today? As you ask God to reframe your perspective, what are the possible good things that can come from your time of suffering?
Prayer: Lord, thank you for my sufferings and challenges. I trust that you will bring good and your glory to my circumstances. AMEN.