Day 273 Bible Reading: Isaiah 60-62, Philippians 1:12-30, Psalm 72 and Proverbs 24:11-12 
What happens when we die is a question many ask and this is true even of believers in Christ. Apostle Paul was very clear as to what the answer to this question is - he was confident that on his death he would be with Christ. In his letter to the Philippians, he actually states that it would be to his gain to die and be with Christ but he knew he would live a little longer as he had more to complete for God's purposes in building Christ's kingdom. Let us be encouraged by this: Death is not something into the unknown but only into the presence of Jesus our Lord and saviour, the one who loves us. And like Paul, let us live the life God gives us in serving Christ so that we can say with Paul - for me to live is Christ, to die is gain!
"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better." – Philippians 1:21-23 (English Standard Version)
"Lord God, thank you for this encouragement in the Bible, your word to us. We do not need to fear death knowing that we will be with you. Keeping this in front of us, let us use the life you give us to serve you with all our hearts. In Jesus' name, Amen."
