Philippians 1

When faced with the consequence of life or death, Paul saw the benefit of both. He concluded that if he was to remain living, it would offer him the chance to continue “fruitful labor” in the work of the Gospel.

For any Christian who faces the end of their life, this can be their prayer … “Lord, I am willing to remain here on earth to serve You so I can continue fruitful labor for You”

If in fact Philippians was Paul’s last letter to the Church, he made his comments from a heart that was resigned to a fate left in God’s hands. Tradition relates that he may have been martyred outside of Rome in 67-8 AD. We thank God for his letters to the churches which provide so much practical wisdom for the Christian life.