For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain… For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.
Philippians 1:21,23 KJV
There is no doubt that even as Christians, we have our moments when we feel we are being pulled in two directions.
Yes, our main desire is to go to Heaven, but we know our lives have many appealing things about it.
We have our strong desires to enjoy life.
To enjoy our marriages, family, good job, and many other things.
But we should not allow mixed feelings to cause us to lose sight of God’s purpose for placing us here.
The Apostle Paul also had mixed feelings during his time in prison.
His conflict was caused when he began to think about what would happen when he was released from prison.
He found himself in a position where he was feeling pressure from two different directions.
He knew that he could possibly fall victim to Nero’s sword.
He wanted to live, not just to enjoy life but because he knew he was needed by his fellow believers (v.24).
He also wanted to be with Christ, because he knew that would be “far better” (v.23).
In Paul’s case, he was being pulled in two directions, but in both cases it was for the highest reason.
What about us?
What directions are each of us being pulled in?
A WORD OF PRAYER
Savior, in this world sin and temptation, sorrow and death, is all around us, but with You we can escape it all. Like Paul we have a desire to be with You, but are willing to remain in this world as long as the Father has a work for us to do. Doing things Your way is a “win-win” situation.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen