January 26, 2018

To Know Christ

“But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ.”  Phil. 3:7

What are your credentials in the world?  What are your accomplishments, successes, and your background?  What has been your education?  Have you married and had children?  Have you done well in a job?  Are you involved in ministry?  Do you hold a place of service in your church?  Do you have good friends?  Now, beloved child of God, which of the above will you take to heaven?  Can you truthfully say, those things that were gain to me, I have counted loss for Christ?  This is difficult, because it addresses the issue of what we hold onto too tightly.  It is one thing to identify the qualifications we had “before Christ” – but what about the ones we have held onto or created after accepting Christ?   Paul’s goal was to know Christ.  His goal is to be ours.

When we write down our list of "gains" or achievements, may we be quick to lay them down and count them as loss; as rubbish, according to Paul.  Lord, show us what we are tightly clinging to in order that today we would surrender it into Your hands.  Let us gain You, Jesus, and be found in You.  This is our prayer today.