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.

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.