“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.”

Philippians 1:23-24
After 60 years of communism in Cuba, many Cuban people desire to move on to a democracy or—in most cases—to move on to another country, in hope of finding freedom. With the same yearning, you and I might desire to accomplish goals, to obtain something that has been out of reach, to provide for our families, to preach the gospel to the ends of the earth, and so on. All of these things are good pursuits. 
However, there should be a deeper longing in us, one similar to the Apostle Paul’s. Even though we are surrounded by good, God-created things, we ought to feel torn between being in this world and being in the presence of Jesus. There are many stories of Cubans who left their country in homemade boats to journey across shark-infested waters with expectations of reaching the land of hope and future. 
Remember, believer: This is not your home. There is a perfect place for you in the presence of Christ. “Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20). 



Scripture Focus

Philippians 1:18-30

Insight

“Hold fast to Christ. For you He became temporal so that you might partake of eternity.” (Saint Augustine, 354-430 AD)

Bible In A Year

  • Joshua 1-2
  • Psalm 97
  • Acts 21

RENEW Your Anchor Subscription Today