Php 1:22-26, 22 If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. …23 … My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. 24 But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus,…
Paul was content with life or death in Christ. He weighs the gains of both for himself and those who benefitted from his personhood and ministry. For him to live was fruitful labor and more reward, 2Jn 1:8 “Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward”; (Col 3:23-24)
To remain would be advantageous to the believers, which means Paul would be in service to them for their joy. He was willing to delay his entrance into blessedness if God permitted. The goal was to comfort, edify and instruct the believers. In chapter 2 he mentions the healing of his friend Epaphroditus. Take note how God sparing Epaphroditus’ life benefitted Paul and the brethren, Php 2:27-28 “27 For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28 Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful. ” The end result was profit, increase of faith and abundance of joy.
The continuous prayer for long life here in the world ought to be the joy of others starting with your own family. Paul was ready to go to be with Jesus, him sticking around was to be advantageous to others. His whole argument for a life of service is to glorify Christ in the body, Rom 12:1.