Philippians 1:21-25

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,

(v21-25, NIV)

To Paul, it doesn't matter whether he lives or dies. If he lives, he lives for Christ. If he dies, he is allowed to depart and be with Christ. Paul is in a win-win situation. Paul is stuck between the two and cannot decide which one he will choose. I should hope that we as true followers of the Lord Jesus Christ would be struck with this same dilemma. If he stays and continues to live, he will work fruitfully for Christ. However, he greatly wishes to depart and be with Christ. To be with Christ is far better than suffering the pain and anxiety on this earth. However, Paul also realizes that fruitful labor is beneficial for those who are still alive on this earth. Followers of Christ are benefited by fruitful labor done by Paul for Christ. Paul is stuck in this dilemma, but he finally decides that since it is beneficial for the saints, he will remain.

Anything we encounter, we need not let it ruin our joy. We know that we are working for Christ as we live on this earth. We are building each other up and helping each other in our progress and joy in the faith. Even if our life is threatened, we know that to die is gain. Should we lose our life, we will win in the end.