Facing Death with Courage

1 Kings 12; 2 Chronicles 10-11; Philippians 2

“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Philippians 1:20, 21

How we face death speaks to the reality of our faith. Paul faced death with courage, hope, and humility. The Roman palace guards in the court, and even Caesar’s household, knew of Paul and his bold, clear witness to the Gospel. Surrounded by the towering pagan temples and emperor cult, Paul lived with supernatural boldness and confidence in Christ his Lord. Only Christ had conquered death. Only Christ had sent his Spirit to comfort and empower as a seal of his ownership of Paul’s life.

Can we say, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain”?

Paul was executed on the Ostian Road outside Rome, but he was welcomed into heaven by the Lord Jesus Christ.

Is our hope sure in Christ?

Do we know the reality of his presence in our lives; has he changed how we face death?

“Lord Jesus, you are the resurrection and the life. Thank you for your hope and for life this day, for your glory.”