Opening Gift Too Early

  ²³But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 

  ²⁴yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 

Philippians 1:23-24

The Apostle Paul is making this simple statement: put aside personal gain for God's bigger plan.  Paul was tired, beaten, treated poorly by just about everyone in flesh; it's no wonder that he preferred to be with Jesus where there's only love and joy.  This is a promise to each of God's children and we are focused on this throughout our trials.  But getting there isn't the only task, it's gathering up all the wandering sheep along the way.  Some will follow, some will not but we still need to call them according to our giftings.  The goal is the finish line, not the bail out.

Each and every one of us wants to give up at times, wanting to go to heaven already.  This mostly comes from the trials we're going through.  It's tough, tiring and sometimes a losing cause.  But we all need to be reminded of our purpuse and refocus through our quiet times, fellowship and sabbath.

Heavenly Father, thank You for being an awesome, caring Father.  Help me Lord to look beyond the trials but at the goal, Your beautiful promises.  In You wonderful name I pray in the name of Jesus, Amen!