Golden Nugget: God has a mission for you—a purpose for your life—that only you can fulfill.

Daily Message:

The physical and emotional toil of pain and suffering can become so intense that we begin to question whether we want to go on living. The Apostle Paul spoke to this dilemma as it related to his own life in Philippians 1:22–26: "If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me."

Paul was imprisoned, facing trial and the potential of a death sentence. He still had the struggles of his physical illness as well. He knew how easy it was to long for death. However, he knew that his mission in life was not yet complete, and that knowledge allowed him to persevere.
 

Consider This:

• What purpose and mission do you think Christ might have for your life?
• How has the pain and suffering you have experienced interfered with your mission?
• In what ways might your continued focus on Christ’s mission for your life help others continue in their progress and joy in the faith?    

Take Action:

Join in Paul’s commitment to remain focused on helping others in their progress and joy in their faith in Christ. Pray that their joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of you!