Paul Writing at a Table With ScrollsBible World

Philippians 1:23

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Paul was caught between two desires, to die and to continue living. He longed to depart and be with Christ, yet he also considered staying in the flesh for the good of others. The choice was difficult because he was weighed down with responsibilities and conflict. He did not know whether to give up the conflict by death or to abide in the flesh.

To depart means to die and to be with Christ, which is far better than remaining in this life. To remain in the flesh means to stay alive for the good of others rather than give up the conflict by death. The desire to depart can be held without sadness or discouragement, leaving its timing to the Lord while still hoping to speak to people again.