Philippians 1:19-26 - Winning mentality

In verses 19-20, we get a feel of Paul’s mental strength. He knew the importance of viewing things with God in perspective. Once that happened, the events and circumstances of life could not take him down. In verse 19, his focus was not in his imprisonment but the result of his imprisonment. Why did Paul use the term “deliverance”? It seems unlikely that Paul was talking about salvation per se. Neither was he thinking about his release from prison. If he was, he would not have mentioned about anticipating death in the later verses. Paul probably had in mind how his imprisonment had given him a clearer perspective and motive concerning his life. This experience helped him to differentiate between what’s important and what’s not. And with that he could then divest himself of the unimportant and focus on the pre-eminence of life.

Paul’s confidence rested on the prayers that he knew the Philippians were offering to God on his behalf. And more than that, he was confident also because of the provision of the ministry of God’s Holy Spirit. Paul had a great expectation and hope. He wanted only one thing; and that was to glorify Christ. Unabashed, he would remain riveted to that one desire. Whether he had to suffer martyrdom or be released from his confinement, he was firmed on that one thing: to exalt Christ in his body.

For Paul, Christ was the center of his life; his focal point. That’s why he could say so confidently that for him, “… to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Since Christ is his focal point, he lived to please Him; whether it be in life or in death, it made no difference to Paul. However, here we also see the dilemma that he was encountering. He did not know which to choose. He wanted to bring the maximum glory to God. To die would mean freedom from persecution and hardship. But he was aware that staying alive would be more needful for the Philippians for they needed his ministry. Between the two, Paul chose the needs of his friends above that of his own preference. He demonstrated a selfless attitude.

And with that attitude, Paul found a renewed confidence. He was confident that he would be released to continue ministering to them. He wanted so much for them to progress in the joy of their faith. His remaining alive to serve them would result in greater joy for the Philippians and that their overflowing joy would be in Christ Jesus. Their jubilant rejoicing would also be on account of Paul who would be present to continue to instruct them in Christ.