Today’s topic is derived from Philippians 1:21: “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” It brings to mind another verse from Galatians 2:20:
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”
Reflecting on these verses, I realized that the statement “For me to live is Christ” serves as both a reminder and a call to action.
On one hand, it reminds us of the profound significance of the cross and the beautiful exchange that took place there. Our past, sins, shame, and guilt were nailed to the cross, and in return, we received a new life in Christ. It reminds us of the limitless possibilities and realities found in Jesus. It reminds us of our identity in Him and whose we are. Do we truly grasp the depth of this truth as Christians? The same Jesus who fully submitted to the Father, performed miracles, and disrupted the religious norms of his time now lives within us through the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in us (Romans 8:11). What a glorious life to live, just as Jesus did, full of grace, truth, love, and glory!
Furthermore, it is a call to action! It urges us to live in a manner worthy of our calling (Ephesians 4:1). It calls us to wholeheartedly pursue Christ and walk in the fullness of these realities. Sometimes we find ourselves complaining or making excuses, but Christ also walked this earth and fulfilled the will of the Father. That is the life we carry, and we have no excuse!
However, living this life is not a matter of sheer willpower or human strength. As Paul stated in Galatians 2:20, he lives by faith in the Son of God. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing the Word of God. Therefore, let us immerse ourselves in the Word of God until His truth permeates our subconscious and becomes our reality (Acts 20:32).
Additionally, we are encouraged to ask in prayer. We can ask the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, to grant us the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. We can ask for our spiritual eyes to be opened, that we may grasp the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and the surpassing greatness of His power towards those who believe, according to His mighty power (Ephesians 1:17-19).
May the Lord grant us deeper understanding and revelation in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Written by Sis Oluwaseun Ogundare (Team Watchmen)