Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ

 Philippians 1:19-30

 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 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!

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 boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit striving together as one for the faith of the gospel. without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

Paul speaks of the past, present, and future, weighing the alternative of life and death. Living or dying. Christ is everything to Paul, and he is hard put to choose. Only the need of the Philippian Christians tips the balance in favor of life.

Why?

Paul has devoted his life to Christ, no matter life or death, he is for Christ. To honor the name of Christ.

Because of the faith so there is joy. Whatever happens, conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. This is our goal in life. So let us stand firm in the one Spirit striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.

How?

Yes, I am not only to believe in Him but also suffer for Him.