But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ.
—Philippians 3:7-8 (KJV)
Paul had accomplished great things — at least in his mind — during his spiritual life as a teacher and Pharisee before he became a Christian. His devotion to God and the Word of God was legendary. He persecuted Christians because he thought they were blasphemers. But when he came to Jesus, he counted his past accomplishments as little more than garbage compared to knowing Christ and the grace he had received from God because of Jesus. Paul found salvation in Jesus, not just from sin and death, but salvation for a life of grace and power so that all people could be redeemed and find hope in Jesus.
Almighty and Faithful Father, thank you for your grace that rescued me from legalism, pride, arrogance, sin, and despair. Thank you for the perfection you have given me in Jesus — a perfection not because of my works but your loving grace. Please use me to help others come to know your grace more fully. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
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—Philippians 3:7-8 (KJV)
Thoughts on Today's Verse...
Paul had accomplished great things — at least in his mind — during his spiritual life as a teacher and Pharisee before he became a Christian. His devotion to God and the Word of God was legendary. He persecuted Christians because he thought they were blasphemers. But when he came to Jesus, he counted his past accomplishments as little more than garbage compared to knowing Christ and the grace he had received from God because of Jesus. Paul found salvation in Jesus, not just from sin and death, but salvation for a life of grace and power so that all people could be redeemed and find hope in Jesus.
My Prayer...
Almighty and Faithful Father, thank you for your grace that rescued me from legalism, pride, arrogance, sin, and despair. Thank you for the perfection you have given me in Jesus — a perfection not because of my works but your loving grace. Please use me to help others come to know your grace more fully. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
Continue reading...
