I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficeint courage so that now, as always, Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. Philippians 1:20 NIV
Paul was in prison. Shackled at the hands and feet in ways that would cut into his skin and cut off his circulation. He was being persecuted for his faith; something he had only obtained in this last half of life.
He had given up so much. His material possessions, once many, now consisted only of the clothes upon his back. He had resolved to live his life for Jesus Christ's glory; and to that end alone!
Was it always easy? No, Paul had to "learn" the secret of being content. Did he never want for anything? Of course, he had desires. He was human, and there were certainly earthly pleasures he missed. Was it worth it? You bet! All of Heaven was waiting for the opportunity to reward him for his faithfulness!
You and I have been summoned to a higher call. We have been requested to take on a deeper commitment. Christ has asked us to lay everything on the line for the sake of His name! We have been bought with a high price. Our mission now is to honor and please the Father; by glorifying His Son.
No, it won't be easy, but we pray that He will give us "sufficient courage" to stand the test of time. Then, on that bright day when Jesus comes to take His people Home, you and I will stand with Paul and receive that honor bestowed upon those who faithfully stood with Jesus; and hear those longed for words: "Well done, thy good and faithful servant."
The older I get, the more I look forward to hearing that praise. Dear Lord, please give me sufficient courage to see it through.
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I may not see in front of me, But I can see for miles around when I look over my shoulder, and Lord, it`s clear. You`ve brought me here, So faithful every step of the way. What can I do but follow you, For You are the Way, the Truth, the Life, And You`ve promised never to leave me, My Savior, my friend, From beginning to end. 
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