Philippians 1:18-30 - To Live Is Christ
18 So, what [should I think about the situation]? Just this: I am happy and will continue to be happy that, in every way, Christ is being preached, [regardless of] whether it is in pretense or with sincerity. 19 For I know that, through your requests [in prayer] for me and the help provided by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, this situation will result in my being rescued [i.e., released from imprisonment]. 20 It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not have to be ashamed about anything, but that I will have the courage, [both] now and always, [to so live] that Christ will be exalted [i.e., honored] in my body, whether I live or die.
21 For life to me is Christ, and if I die, it would be gain. 22 But if [continuing] to live in my body means accomplishing more work [for Christ], then I do not know which to choose. 23 So, I am in a dilemma between the two choices. [On the one hand] I have the desire to depart [from this life] and be with Christ [in heaven], which would be far better. 24 Yet [on the other hand], to remain in my body is more necessary for your sakes. 25 So, being convinced of this, I know I will remain [in my body] and continue with all of you for your spiritual progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that, by my being with you again, you will be able to rejoice all the more in [our lives together with] Christ Jesus.
27 So, [whatever happens], live your daily lives in such a way as to be worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or remain absent from you, I will hear about you, that you are standing firm in one spirit [i.e., united in purpose, and] contending with one mind for the faith of the Gospel [i.e., for the body of Christian teaching]. 28 [I also want to hear] that you are not being frightened by those who oppose you, which [opposition] is proof that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved, and this will [all] be done by God. 29 Because God has granted you [the privilege], on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake. 30 [So], you are now experiencing the same struggle you [once] saw me going through, and now are hearing that I still am.