A Refuge

Life is filled with challenges. There are many things we go through that are not easy. Nevertheless, in the midst of it all we can have a sense of peace knowing the hope we have in Christ. This life has many glorious aspects to it as well as many difficult ones. Perhaps we have sometimes felt it would be nice to pull over and park for a while. However, life goes on and we can have courage to press on because we have come to know that this life is not all there is to our existence. If it were, there might be good reason at times to quit.

To the church at Corinth, Paul stated…
“If in this life only we have HOPED IN CHRIST, we are of all people most to be pitied.” ( 1 Corinthians 15:19 ESV)

Because our HOPE goes beyond this realm we can find ourselves approaching life’s challenges with less fear than those who do not yet know that HOPE. As others observe us and wonder, hopefully the example of our faith will speak powerfully with regard to the HOPE we possess because of our knowledge there is more to our existence than meets the eye.

Solomon stated…
“The wicked is overthrown through his evildoing, BUT THE RIGHTEOUS FINDS REFUGE IN HIS DEATH.” ( Proverbs 14:32 ESV)

Was this a part of Paul’s focus? As Paul continued to be a good steward of his time in this realm, he was encouraged on by his view of his greatest gain.

Note Paul’s attitude with regard to life and death.
“(21) For to me TO LIVE IS CHRIST, and TO DIE IS GAIN. (22) If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. (23) I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and BE WITH CHRIST, for that IS FAR BETTER. (24) But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. (25) Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, (26) so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.” ( Philippians 1:21-26 ESV)

Having been provided a glimpse of some of the things Paul endured ( 2 Corinthians 11:23-28) we might easily understand a sense of eagerness with regard to the refuge death would provide. Paul knew his HOPE was (as Peter referred to it) a “living HOPE” ( 1 Peter 1:3) and the greatest gain he could receive would be through death. Nevertheless, while in this realm he would continue to serve the Lord’s purposes for his life.

Let us be diligent in living for Christ now, recognizing the ultimate gain in store for us. This life is just the beginning and death is not the end because in Christ we have a living HOPE!

Have a great day LIVING WITH GREAT EXPECTATIONS!
Carl

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