Are we dying or living as another day passes? For sure, physical death is inevitable for humans still living in the flesh. One will not live forever, but does that bring you more fear or a deeper understanding of life?
Living is dying and dying is living. It will take a whole lot of faith in struggling and suffering to comprehend and live with this concept.
Death is something I have pondered upon in my years of suffering a chronic disorder. I know, I will be judged; perhaps some would suggest I shouldn’t talk about it. However, it is something that encapsulates my mind at times.
While there were people who’d buy for any amount to see another day; there were people who no longer have the desire to face another day. The reasons are aplenty on both sides.
Striving for Knowing:
It may appear strange to some, but more often I have been given verses from the Bible in my dreams. At times, it’s very specific – the book, chapter, and verses, which were easy to look forward to.
The other night the book of Apostle Paul’s epistle to the Epistle of Galatians as a whole was presented to me. Then the epistle to the Philippians just a week ago. So, I took time to study both of them.
Here I would base this post on the later than the first book.
Dying is Gain:
I wanted to know why Philippians, among the many books, was given to me. There’s no reason why I’m good enough as them as mentioned in the epistle.
If I told you about my passing thoughts on dying, you may be shocked to know my state of mind. In the clinic I have visited for Neurological Disorder, I have heard some patients struggling with suicidal thoughts.
By the grace of God, up until today I did not and do not have that thought in mind. It will come eventually so there is no rush in it.
The Apostle Paul writes: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 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!” Phil. 1:22 He is so sure about Christ’s Death and His Resurrection.
Torn Between Living and Dying:
Paul further added. “I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
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, so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me. Phil. 1:23-26
He had expressed the desires of many people who are still in the flesh, but some have faith while some don’t.
In a nutshell, the Apostle Paul knew quite well that he was not on his own. He humbled himself to God. If God had a purpose for him to live more, he would live more even though his suffering might seem unbearable.
About Living Another Day:
In my latest book INTRACTABLE, I have also written a semi-chapter on the overwhelming pain I suffered due to my disorder.
You know what sometimes, it distracted my positivity. But at times brings me closer to God. For I know that I am still living by the abiding grace of God.
I cannot do much for anyone. I often pray to God that without me fulfilling my purpose on this earth kindly not take me yet.
We must hold no confidence in the flesh!
Worth Living:
Do not fear! Fear not!
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Phil.1:27-30
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.
This gospel made my life worth living. The one who has given me this will handle me well if I have a little faith by clinging to him.
Living or Dying:
For me to live, he died
On the cross, he shed
His blood for eternal sacrifice
He paid for my delivery
Death could not hold him.
I eagerly expect and hope
I will in no way be ashamed
But have sufficient courage
He’ll be exalted in my body,
whether by life or by death.
Amen!
