Philippians 1:21-30 - Living Is Christ

²¹ For, as I see it, living means Christ and dying something even better. ²² But if living on here means having my labor bear fruit, I cannot tell which to choose. ²³ I am undecided between the two, for I long to depart and be with Christ, for that is far, far better, ²⁴ and yet your needs make it very necessary for me to stay on here. ²⁵ I am convinced of this, and so I know that I shall stay on and serve you all, to help you to develop and to be glad in your faith. ²⁶ So you will find in me fresh cause for Christian exultation, through having me with you again.

²⁷ Whatever happens, show yourselves citizens worthy of the good news of the Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am kept away and only hear news of you, I may know that you are standing firm with one spirit, one purpose, fighting side by side for faith in the good news. ²⁸ Never for a moment falter before your opponents, for your fearlessness will be a sure sign for them of their coming destruction, but to you it will be an omen, from God himself, of your deliverance. ²⁹ For you have been granted the privilege not only of trusting in Christ but of suffering for him. ³⁰ Take your part in the same struggle that you have seen me engage in and that you hear I am still keeping up.