Phil1:3 Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. NLT
There was a wicked head of state who looted his country and killed alot of dissenting voices during his reign. Years after his demise, his loots were recovered from his offshore accounts. Anytime they mention his name in the news, negative reactions erupt and people wish him the hottest part of hell.
Another leader who transformed the society, gave free education and grew the economy remains a reference point till date. In fact, an elderly man said: "If not for that man, I wouldn't have had primary education". Two things will always happen whenever people think about you, it is either they regret or give thanks to God for your life.
Apostle Paul stated clearly in the opening scripture that whenever he thought about the Philippian church, thanksgiving erupts. Obviously, we know why it was so. Reading through the book of Philippians, we saw that they supported Paul's ministry financially. Their impact in Paul's ministry was such that he could not forget in a hurry.
Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to Apostle Paul. When Paul remembered him, he expressed regret and prayed that God would judge him for his deeds(2 Tim4:14). When people think about you, what happens, regret or thanksgiving?
Your impact in the lives of people will determine whether they should thank God or regret when they remember you. Whatever you do today, someone is watching and records are being kept.
After pleasing God, you must consciously affect lives positively. Eli G. Christy in her famous hymn said: Only remembered by what we have done.
Do to people what will make them thank God always whenever they remember you.