Falmouth, Kentucky, residents faced a nightmare of a decision in early 1997. The nearby Licking River was rising at the rate of a foot an hour, and local officials were urging people to evacuate. Most people left, but others, either fearing looters or downplaying the severity of the flood, refused to go.

We can understand why the people had such a tough time leaving. Each of us has possessions or places we want to protect and not let go of.

In Philippians 1, Paul spoke of being torn between two locations: "I am hard pressed between the two" (v.23). He longed to join his Savior in heaven, but he also knew that God had given him a purpose to fulfill on earth. He was torn between his desire to be with Christ and his calling to minister to people.

If you have placed your trust in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord, you can understand Paul's dilemma. You look forward to being with Jesus, yet you realize God has a reason for you to stay on this troubled planet.

To stay or to go? The time for you to leave this world is God's decision, so make the most of your life while you're here. Give each day to Jesus Christ. Keep living for Him and rescuing others.  — Dave Branon