whether we are at home in this body
Paul uses the metaphor of being "at home in this body" to describe the earthly life of believers. This reflects the temporary nature of our physical existence, as seen in James 4:14, which compares life to a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. The body is often described in Scripture as a tent or temporary dwelling (2 Corinthians 5:1), highlighting the transient nature of our earthly journey. This perspective encourages believers to focus on eternal values rather than temporary, worldly concerns (Colossians 3:2). The phrase also implies a sense of stewardship over our physical bodies, as they are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

or away from it
This part of the verse refers to the believer's existence after physical death, when they are "away from the body." Paul contrasts the earthly life with the eternal life that follows, as seen in Philippians 1:23, where he expresses a desire to depart and be with Christ. The concept of being "away from the body" aligns with the Christian hope of resurrection and eternal life, as promised in John 11:25-26. This hope is rooted in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20). The assurance of being with the Lord after death provides comfort and motivation for believers to live faithfully in the present.

Paul’s opening words set the tone: he is speaking about a settled, lifelong ambition.

• In Romans 15:20 he writes, “It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known,” showing how a holy aspiration directs all his choices.

• Colossians 3:1–2 urges believers, “Set your hearts on things above… Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things,” making clear that godly desire reshapes priorities.

• Because Scripture is wholly true and trustworthy, we can own Paul’s ambition as our own, confident that it aligns with God’s revealed will.

The aim of all Christian aspiration is the pleasure of the Lord.

• Colossians 1:10 calls us to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way.”

• Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, “Without faith it is impossible to please God,” tying divine pleasure to believing obedience.

• Jesus Himself lived this pattern: “I always do what pleases Him” (John 8:29). Our calling echoes His.

Practical implications:

– Evaluate plans by asking, “Does this delight the Lord?”

– Cultivate faith that trusts His promises over feelings or circumstances.

While still in our earthly bodies, pleasing God happens in the everyday.

• 2 Corinthians 5:6 notes, “While we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord.” Yet distance does not cancel devotion; it intensifies longing.

• Philippians 1:22 shows earthly life as fruitful labor: “If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me.”

Daily application:

– Use bodily strength, time, and resources to serve (Romans 12:1).

– Endure suffering with hope, knowing it “achieves for us an eternal glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Paul’s vision stretches beyond death: even absence from the body centers on Christ.

• Just two verses earlier he says, “We would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8).

• Philippians 1:23 echoes the same yearning: “I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.”

Because Scripture speaks plainly, we affirm that the believer’s conscious fellowship with Jesus continues immediately after death. Our ambition to please Him never pauses; it simply moves to a fuller stage.

2 Corinthians 5:9 calls every believer to adopt Paul’s singular ambition: delight the Lord in all seasons—alive on earth or present with Him in heaven. Scripture assures us that our loyalty, expressed in faith-filled obedience now, will blossom into unhindered fellowship then. Let this certain hope fuel wholehearted devotion today, confident that His pleasure is our highest goal and greatest reward.