THURSDAY August 29, 2024
A Hard-pressed Desire
For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you.
Philippians 1:23-24
Paul struggled with mixed emotions. He was hard-pressed. Why? He desired to be with the Lord, but he knew God’s will was for him to remain. There was still a purpose for his life. Believers in Christ still needed to be ministered to.
Paul told the Philippians, “I am remaining here for you!” Again, he would love to be in the presence of the Lord, but it was not yet his time to go to heaven. God had him right where He wanted him. Paul knew in his heart that one day in the future, he would go be with the Lord. It was all according to God’s plan and purpose for his life.
This is the same for all of us. One day, when our work for God is finished, we shall go be with the Lord in heaven; but for now, we need to take full advantage of the days, hours, minutes and seconds that He has given us. God still has a purpose for our lives. Consider the reason why God is keeping us here. It could be for more time given to us to minister to our children, grandchildren, or whoever else is around us. Believe me, when God is finished with you, then He will take you home––you will be gone!
Right now, God still has a purpose for your life. One of the main purposes is to be a witness to everyone you know. Share your faith with people so they can come to know the Lord. Let them see your sincere love for Christ and your love for them. May they observe your Christian witness––your worthy conduct and your integrity.
If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.
~C.S. Lewis~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
