Marie’s daily verse: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 JOHN 1:9).

DAILY DEVOTION, October 6, 2022

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21).

I recall a church I visited in Decatur where those baptized were given a “life verse.” It was a verse from Scripture with special meaning to the one baptized. I think if I were to select a “life verse” for myself the above would be in the competition, along with John 3:16.

Paul summarizes the Gospel in a few words. During his life on earth, he wanted Christ to be at the center. He understood that his joy and meaning in life all came from Jesus. His daily life with all its decisions was centered on Jesus. I want my life to reflect that attitude, don’t you?

Then Paul turned his attention to the future. He understood, as do we all that his earthly life was brief. We all hope to live a long and meaningful life Then what? Paul then anticipates eternal life. This life is good when Christ is at the center. The future life is even better, infinitely better. It is a big gain over this earthly life. The Christ we now see through a dark glass, then we shall see Him face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12).

Is there a better way to live than to live for Jesus now and then graduate to eternal life which will be a vast improvement? Paul says a lot in 12 words. I think I will adopt Philippians 1:21 as my life verse.

Father, I do want to live for Jesus. I want Him to be the center of all my thoughts, words, and deeds. I thank You so much for the promise that those who trust in Jesus in this life will enjoy an even better life in heaven. May the name of Jesus be honored in my life, Amen.