In Philippians 1.18b-26, It is clear that Paul has the expectation that his experience will 
result in his deliverance. But, his definition of deliverance is freedom from prison OR freedom from his life. Either way, his greatest hope is that he will not be ashamed in life or death. In fact, Paul sounds torn between what he feels is better. Not that he really has a choice in the matter, but he has a great desire to stay and work for Christ but an equal (or even greater) desire to be with Jesus. For Paul, to LIVE IS CHRIST TO DIE IS GAIN.
I wonder what it really means to “live as Christ?” To live “as” Christ seems to mean more than just asking “What would Jesus do?” all of time. Perhaps we aren’t to ask questions at all but, rather, preach to ourselves constantly through our daily life what Jesus HAS ALREADY DONE. There are many different aspects of our daily lives…can we see that we are devoted to Christ in them? That the gospel is governing our approach to and appreciation for them? This is not committed to doing life in a culturally “Christian way”, as much as doing it for, by, and through Jesus Christ. Doing this should encompass all of life–make it all spiritual (not just Sunday mornings)–and result in more statements like: To work is Christ. To play is Christ. To parent is Christ. To grow is Christ. To spend is Christ. To eat is Christ. To drink is Christ. To relate is Christ. To learn is Christ. To rejoice is Christ. To dream is Christ. To serve is Christ. To give is Christ. To love is Christ. Is there any life apart from Christ? No, not if Jesus is actually right when he says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Apart from Christ, there is no motivation in life to live. Apart from Christ, there is no power to live. Apart from Christ, there is no example to live by. Come quickly Lord Jesus so that I can truly experience the glorified life!
Colossians 4.1-4 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
