I started to make a list of the pros and cons of staying here on earth and going through some pretty unpleasant things (as Paul was experiencing) or being in heaven with God and having a glorified body. And while I look forward to heaven, I think God has instilled in us a will to live–and live here. And even in the hard times I am with God, for the Holy Spirit lives in me.
Philippians 1:19-24 (New Living Translation)
For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance. For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live.
Kathleen S Evenhouse 