Influence
The apostle Paul wrote this to the Philippian church: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith." (Phil 1:21-25, ESV)
There are times that I get frustrated about my struggles and desire that God simply remove me from them. Most often, I am self-focused when thinking this. God doesn't have me remain here on earth for myself, but so that I can impact others with my life - my kids, my wife, my fellow believers, and most importantly, those who don't yet know Him. I think it is healthy to desire my heavenly home, but that desire needs to come in the context of a desire to be with the Lord, not to escape circumstances.
There are times that I get frustrated about my struggles and desire that God simply remove me from them. Most often, I am self-focused when thinking this. God doesn't have me remain here on earth for myself, but so that I can impact others with my life - my kids, my wife, my fellow believers, and most importantly, those who don't yet know Him. I think it is healthy to desire my heavenly home, but that desire needs to come in the context of a desire to be with the Lord, not to escape circumstances.
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