To Die Is Gain - What if it means more than Leaving this world?

 

To Die Is Gain — A Reflection

on Letting Go and Growing Up in Christ

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

— Philippians 1:21

This verse from the Apostle Paul is often read in the context of physical death and the hope of being united with Christ in eternity. But there’s also a profound lesson here for our everyday lives. What if “to die” means more than leaving this world? What if it also means laying down the parts of ourselves that no longer serve God’s purpose—our harmful habits, our sharp tongues, our stubborn pride?

In the quiet of reflection, I think about the times I’ve had to “die” to old ways of thinking and behaving. One example comes to mind—Georgia, a friend whose quiet bitterness was eating away at her peace. She held on tightly to every little offense, replaying past wrongs and avoiding those who hurt her. It felt justified… until it didn’t.

One morning, in the gentle conviction of prayer, she realized that holding on was only hurting herself. With courage and grace, she decided to let go. She “died” to bitterness by choosing forgiveness, by releasing the offense into God’s hands. That choice, repeated daily, slowly transformed her.

What did she gain?
A freer heart. A lighter spirit. A deeper joy in her relationships.
A new reflection of Christ within her.

When we cast off the old and painful layers of our character, we don’t lose ourselves—we gain something far better.
We gain peace. We gain clarity.
We gain Christ in us, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).

So today, what needs to die in you? Pride? Envy? Resentment?
And what could you gain if you let it go?

Let us remember:

To live is Christ—and to die, even to our old selves, is gain.

Love Finds Its Way

 Love Finds Its Way

She was eighty-five — a gentle, dignified lady who drove her old car faithfully to church every Sunday. Rain or shine, she made the 20-mile trip alone, her heart anchored in faith and fellowship. But when the time came that she could no longer drive, she quietly booked a taxi each week, determined not to miss a single service.

The taxi driver was a man about seventy-eight, a quiet soul with kind eyes. At first, it was just another ride. But as the Sundays passed, he began to notice the grace in her spirit, the joy in her simple words, and the quiet strength in her laughter. She, too, noticed his gentle heart — a man who treated her with care, never as a mere passenger, but as someone who mattered.

Could I join you for a cup of tea?

One Sunday, after service, he asked if he could join her for tea. She smiled and said yes. One tea turned into many. Conversations grew deeper. Somewhere along those miles and moments, love quietly found its way between them.

Against all odds — against age, against expectations — they married. And theirs was not a story of youthful passion, but of steady companionship, mutual respect, and tender care. They built a life of simple joys: shared breakfasts, evening walks, holding hands in quiet prayers. They became living proof that love isn’t bound by age, and that God’s timing writes the most beautiful stories.

A lifetime of love: Senior couples renew vows in Virginia Beach

Their story reminds me of Proverbs 19:21 — “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

Indeed, love sometimes arrives when we least expect it… in a taxi ride, on an ordinary Sunday, in the quiet heart of two souls ready for a new chapter.

Gratitude in the Midst of Trials

Giving thanks during difficulties can feel counterintuitive, yet it is a profound act of faith. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Gratitude during trials doesn’t mean denying pain; it means trusting God’s plan. Reflect on how challenges have strengthened your character, deepened your faith, or drawn you closer to God. By thanking Him in the storm, you demonstrate trust in His goodness and sovereignty. Gratitude in adversity is a declaration of hope, reminding us that God is always at work, bringing beauty from ashes.

Kindness as a Lifestyle

 Kindness as a Lifestyle

When adopted as a lifestyle, kindness transforms communities by fostering a culture of compassion and mutual respect. It extends beyond mere acts of courtesy; it becomes a guiding principle in human interactions, shaping the fabric of communal relationships. A lifestyle of kindness involves consistently choosing empathy over indifference, understanding over judgment, and support over neglect.

Colossians 3:12 - Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved,
compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 

 In a community, the ripple effect of kindness is profound. Small acts, such as helping a neighbor with groceries, listening attentively to someone in distress, or offering a smile to a stranger, can significantly uplift the spirit of individuals. These gestures create a sense of belonging and security, reinforcing the idea that everyone is valued and cared for. As people experience kindness, they are inspired to reciprocate, creating a cycle of goodwill that enhances communal harmony. 

Romans 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, 

live peaceably with all

Moreover, kindness as a lifestyle encourages inclusivity and reduces social barriers. It promotes an environment where differences are celebrated rather than criticized, leading to stronger, more cohesive communities. When kindness is ingrained in daily life, it mitigates conflicts and fosters cooperation, ensuring that community members work together towards common goals. 

Ultimately, kindness as a lifestyle nurtures an environment where everyone can thrive. It is the cornerstone of a healthy, vibrant community, where respect and compassion are occasional acts and the essence of daily interactions. 

Gratitude in Redeeming One's Life

 

Gratitude in Redeeming One's Life

In the pursuit of redeeming one's life and achieving progress on a meaningful journey, there is a profound truth that cannot be overlooked - the significance of gratitude. Gratitude stands resolute as an essential aspect when forging a connection with the divine forces that shape our existence. It serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path to personal growth and fulfillment. It takes effort to embrace gratitude, but with the guidance of a higher power, it becomes an invaluable tool for reclaiming time and preserving life's essence.

The act of being thankful goes beyond polite acknowledgment; it is a mindset of humility, contentment, and mindfulness toward life's blessings. By focusing on the present moment and appreciating the blessings it holds, gratitude opens doors for transformative experiences. Instead of dwelling on regrets from the past or worries about the future, we can appreciate what we have now.

The journey of redeeming one's life is not without challenges, and it is in these moments that the power of gratitude truly shines. Embracing gratitude during difficult times cultivates resilience and fortitude, offering solace and a sense of purpose during moments of uncertainty. This is where the guidance of a higher power becomes essential. Surrendering to the divine presence provides the strength and assurance that we are not alone in our struggles and that every step, no matter how challenging, has a purpose.

What is Gratitude and Four ways to practice:

https://youtu.be/hABaXMcpLWI?si=oEnU0_7oJ5xcekIW