QUESTION OF THE DAY

Would it be wrong to pray to leave this world?

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With the pressures and pain that can come in this earthly life, we can sometimes think it might be better to leave this world and go home to be with the Lord. Paul shares his feelings in Philippians 1:21, “For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” He goes on to say, however, “But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live.” (verses 22-24).

Notice how the apostle answered the question. The issue, Paul said, was not what was best for him but what was best for the sake of others. He valued the needs of others above his own personal desire to be with the Lord.

In other words, this is about destiny. Regardless of how you feel, think or believe, God has a purpose for your life, too. He knew exactly when you would be born and what He wanted you to do. There is no one else like you; nobody else can do what you can for the Lord. God can use you to touch other people—family, friends, neighbors and people in need. Look around and see the good you have done for others and the good you can still do. We believe you will realize you are more valuable than you thought.

Though it is better for you to be with the Lord, it is better for others that you stay (Philippians 1:24).