The Impacts Of God’s Blessings Намуна

Either Way, We Cannot Lose?
by Rev. Kenley Mann 

Paul was under house arrest in Rome on Caesar’s waiting list for a trial because he preached the gospel. He could have either been executed or set free. If set free, he would have continued his work as an evangelist and brought beautiful blessings from God into people’s lives. 

But Paul’s ministry took a toll on his body, his soul, and his mind. He was exhausted and wanted to go home to heaven. That’s why he was hoping to be judged as guilty, executed, and go to heaven. He was torn between hoping to die or live. If he lived, it would mean more people could hear about God’s forgiveness. We hear in this important verse Paul’s conclusion: For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Dwight Moody was a famous American evangelist in the 1800s and, at one point, traveled by ship on the Great Lakes. A huge storm arose. The passengers were so afraid that they started a prayer gathering and asked God to deliver them from the storm.

They asked Moody if he would join in.

He said, “No, I don’t want to.”

They were taken aback and wondering why he, as a pastor, didn’t want to lead the prayers.

They asked him, “Why?” 

He answered, “I have a sister in Chicago, and I have a sister in heaven, and I don’t care which one I see tonight.” 

Don’t you love that attitude, confidence, and conviction?

That was Paul’s attitude. It is our attitude as well. Is there life after death? You bet there is, and I for one can’t wait. But in the meantime, I can’t wait to share God’s word and see what God does with it.

“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Either way we cannot lose. 

Prayer: Dear Father, I long for the day when Christ comes in victory to bring me home to you. Until that day, I am eager for you to use me in sharing your word of forgiveness. I am thankful that no matter what, my future is tied to your Son and my Savior. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.