The Apostle Paul was a true servant of God, who fought the good fight. His single goal was to be faithful to God and do his will, especially as he stated in Acts 20:24:
I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me–the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace. (Acts 20:23,24)
Testifying to the gospel of God’s grace is what Paul lived for. He knew the gospel message would bring eternal life instantly to all who would receive God’s truth, but they first needed to find out what it was. Paul looked beyond the persecution he constantly faced to help others with their greatest need — salvation. Even though many of Paul’s persecutions were potentially lethal, nothing could stop the man! Even when he was locked in prison, he wrote part of the Bible and prayed for others. How could he consistently have DISREGARD for his natural life in comparison to doing God’s will? The answer is clear:
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Phil 1:21)
Paul’s heart was set on doing God’s will to the end. He was caught up into paradise at least once (2 Cor. 12:2-4). He saw it first-hand. A small part of the wonders, beauty, peace, love, joy and excitement of that holy place surely cemented it in his mind that such was a definite win over his earthly life. But that is not all. The same is true for ALL who live for Christ. Reader, if that describes you, you have MUCH better days head. They are out of this world! The place or home of the righteous is Paradise, and he who overcomes will enter. Surely, all who do enter could say as Paul wrote, to die is gain. Hence, if you are a follower of Jesus, don’t fear death. To die is gain. Death is not the end, but the beginning of a wonderful eternity in God’s presence. Thank you Jesus.
