Philippians 1:21 states: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." This verse expresses Paul's desire to live a life dedicated to Christ and his belief that death, while not necessarily a desirable outcome, would be a beneficial "gain" for him as he would be in the presence of the Lord

To live is Christ": Paul emphasizes that his life is centered around Christ. He finds fulfillment and purpose in living for Christ's glory and spreading the Gospel. 

"To die is gain": While Paul acknowledges that he is still in prison and desires to continue his ministry, he also understands that death is a transition to being with Christ. For a believer, death is a gain because it means entering into the presence of God and receiving eternal life.