Philippians 3 - 12.6.24

Scripture: Philippians 3:7 - 8

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.

Observation

This verse acts as a reminder to us that nothing of this world measures up to that of KNOWING our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Leading up to this verse, Paul lists his impressive Jewish credentials, highlighting his status as a Pharisee, Hebrew of Hebrews, and zealous follower of the law. The original audience was the Christian church in Philippi, which Paul wrote during his time in prison. Paul is conveying that in comparison to knowing Christ, all his accomplishments are worthless and mere rubbish. His true value now comes from his intimate fellowship with Christ who surpasses all things of this world. He is urging the church to not rely on the world for righteousness, but rather communion with Christ Jesus. This is similar to what Paul discusses in Galatians 5:6 that the law has no value-the only thing of worth is faith expressed through love in Christ.

Application

The world tells us that success is being well educated, having a successful career, owning a home, nice cars and much more. We cannot live our life trying to do everything perfect in our own strength and have the Abundant Life God has promised us. Through Faith in Christ Jesus and surrendering our lives to Him, we will experience the amazing life that Jesus has for us. All the world’s success is garbage in comparison to KNOWING Christ Jesus. To KNOW the depth of His love for us. To KNOW that He gave His life so we may live. To KNOW the suffering that we endure in life makes us into the person God made us to be. There is nothing in the world that is better than KNOWING Christ Jesus and walking in step with the Holy Spirit. To live the Abundant Life that He has given us.

Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus, help us to live our lives looking to you for everything. Pressing into KNOWING YOU intimately and have a deep understanding of your love for us. Help us to deny our fleshly desires and press forward to the Prize of KNOWING YOU. Thank You Jesus for loving us, dying for us, rising and living in us, so that we may live our lives Victoriously in You. I am forever Grateful!

- Michelle Craig