Last time we looked at the phrase “to die is gain” from Paul’s letter.  This morning we studied the very famous words that precede this phrase: “for me to live is Christ.” I’ve been chewing on those words all day. What does Paul mean by “for me to live is Christ”? What would my life look like if Jesus were my singular focus, central to everything and my greatest obsession?

              As Heidi and I discussed the idea of living for Christ, she began to flesh out the importance of community. Her thoughts spurred me on to a few others. As I meditate on the phrase “to live is Christ,” I see a few ways to apply this to my life. First, my primary focus must be Jesus and the gospel. I must continually point people to the glory of Christ and eternal life in Jesus. Second, I must continually be in biblical community. This comes through weekly corporate worship and continual participation in life groups. I need to be around other believers. Third, I must place my life where the Spirit can regularly remove the dross of sin from me, purify my heart, and lead me in righteousness. Next, I must hold the things of this world, including Heidi, my family, and ministry loosely. Finally, I must continually become increasingly bold about living an others-focused life that seeks to share the love of God with those I come into contact with.

              What do you think? What would you add? As you consider the phrase, “to live is Christ,” what would it look like for you? Take a few moments today and conduct a personal inventory of your life. What do you need to change, add, or remove from your life to echo Paul’s challenging claims, “For me to live in Christ?”