"A strait betwixt two "

"having a desire to depart , and to be with Christ , which is far better ; nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you." Phillipians .1  23, 24 .

Living hope of going to be with Christ is the only anodyne to neutralize the pain of parting with those who are dear to us in the body . When Paul upon his own children in the faith , who still greatly needed his presence , the thought of separation was in itself painful . The bond on this side was strong , the attraction on this side powerful ; it was good for him that he was drawn with equal force to the other side . Brethren , we all have tender ties to earth and time . Children , it may be , or brothers , both in the flesh and in the spirit , are twined closely round our hearts . We are needful to them . This is felt on both sides now , and will be felt more tenderly when the hour of separation is drawing near . How shall the pang be softened to both parties , - to him who is departing , and to those who remain ? In one way only ; the desire to depart and be with Christ will do it , and nothing else will . How good it is , how necessary to have that hope and trust now !  How dreary to be drifting down towards those dark and tempestuous narrows before the anchor of the soul has been thrown within the veil , and fastened there on Jesus . Paul's "strait " is the only easy position on the earth ; oh to be in it ! If you are held by both these bonds you will not fear a fall on either side . Although your life , instead of beiug in your Father's hands , were at the disposal of your worst enemy , in his utmost effort to do you harm , he would be shut up between these two ,-either to keep you a while longer in Christ's work , or send you sooner to Christ's presence . That were indeed a charmed life that should tremble evenly in the blessed balance ;-this way , we shall do good to men ; that way ; we shall be with the Lord .