To Live is Christ...To Die is Gain
Finding True Gain Through a Life Lived for Christ Rather Than Worldly Success
To Live Is Christ...To Die Is Gain
In 2011, the world learned of the passing of Apple mogul Steve Jobs. Mr. Jobs was responsible for developing a great deal of technology that has impacted billions of people all over the world. The iPod and iPad totally revolutionized how people listen to music and communicate at the touch of a finger. People held candlelight vigils outside the Apple gates, posted Facebook messages, and mentioned how grateful they were for his contribution to society.
It is a wonderful thing for a man to be celebrated at the end of his days. To have triumphed in life and made a difference must make one feel a sense of comfort and achievement. However, once you have breathed your last breath, the only accolades that will matter will be those spoken to you by God. Have you done well in His eyes or not?
The apostle Paul said in the book of Philippians, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." This is a message of faith in the fact that his life was a sacrifice to the name of Christ. All that he did and all that he was belonged to Him. He states that even in his death, he wins! Why would he say that? What about living for Christ and dying in Him brings gain?
When we think of the greats who passed on in 2011, such as Steve Jobs and Michael Jackson, we have to wonder if, in all of their glory in life, they found gain in death. The Bible says, "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36.
Great inventions, the Forbes list, being voted most beautiful, etc.—all of these things fall away at death's door. The old saying, "You can't take it with you," is true when we are talking about things accumulated in this world. Yet those things that we do for Christ will last into the next world. Our salvation, accomplishing what He has called us to do, changing lives, loving people, obeying His Word, etc.—these things will bring a reward in the life to come that even death can't take away.
Those who are wise among us will seek after the things that are eternal. Excel in this life, fulfill your potential while alive on the earth, but don't forget the greatest thing—to live your life with an eternity mindset. If I die today, will God be pleased with what I did with what He gave me? Our hope is not in the earth. Our hope is in the promise of things to come.
Be encouraged, everyone. Know that your labor down here is not in vain. Continue to lay up treasures in heaven and live this life to the fullest. Bring God glory in all that you do, and at the end of your days, may you find great gain.
Shalom.
