Today you should read: Philippians 1:20-26
The most famous of the Westminster catechisms is the very first one which is:
“What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.”
I think about this catechism when reading Philippians 1:20-21, as the apostle Paul shares how it’s his eager expectation and hope that he will not be ashamed, but instead be full of courage as he honors and glorifies God with his life and death. In fact, in verses 21-26 he shares how both life and death are a win-win situation, because we get to glorify God through both. Think about that for a moment—do we view life and death as good, glorious situations? A life in a fallen world where people have actually asked my wife and I: “why would you want to bring MORE children in THIS world?” when sharing the news of Jessica’s pregnancy with twins.
Think about the pain, suffering and grief involved with most deaths and funerals. And here’s Paul saying “if I get to live, it’s going to be for Christ, which means fruitful labor for the kingdom.” This means more salvations, more discipleships, more churches being planted, more spiritual growth and fulfilled purposes for what people were created for before sin messed everything up. But to die, that’s an even greater gain. I get to finally be present with my Creator, my Heavenly Perfect Father with no more sin, shame or suffering, forever and ever. Therefore, both life and death’s purpose is to glorify God because: to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Do you glorify God through your life in Christ?
Will you glorify Him in your death?
By: Erik Koliser — West Campus Pastor
JumpstartCPC.com 