ESOCS Devotional 10 July 2021
TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 3:1-11
MEMORY VERSE: “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ” (Philippians 3:7 KJV).
Our salvation surpasses our earthly credentials (achievements) – status, fame, certificate, wealth, chieftaincy titles, awards, etc. Whereas salvation is eternal, earthly achievements (though good) are ephemeral. If we pursue earthly achievements and neglect salvation, it will lead to eternal damnation.
Paul had excellent credential; yet, he wrote it off as worthless for salvation sake. Paul was from the tribe of Benjamin, a well-respected tribe among the Jews. He was also a Pharisee – a very devout Jewish sect that respected and kept its own many rules in addition to the laws of Moses. They commanded great respect among the Jews. He was a reputable lawyer. Why then did Paul count all as worthless?
He knew that those things are worthless when compared with knowing Christ because they are earthly; therefore perishable. He gave up everything- family, friendship, and even political freedom. We should likewise value our relationship with Christ as more important than everything else. How do we know Him better? It is by studying the Bible daily. We should also study His life style – how He lived and responded to people and issues of life while on earth (Matthew 11:29, 30). We should worship and pray, let the Holy Spirit remind us of Christ’s words (John 14:26). We should preach the gospel and learn from His sufferings (Matthew 28:19, 20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47; Philippians 3:10).
To do the above means that we must make major changes in our thinking and lifestyle, and make sacrifices. Good credentials and achievements are good, but while we pursue them, they must not take over our interest in our salvation. Salvation is eternal, credentials are ephemeral – very temporal. Be wise!
- Identify those things you need to give up for Christ sake and remind yourself of them daily.
- Ask God to give you the power to forsake the things identified.
Read Other ESOCS Devotional here
FURTHER READING: Proverbs 28:14; Amos 3:1-2; Jonah 1, 3; Matthew 3:1-3, 7-1
Thank you for reading the ESOCS Devotional today. Please share and follow us on all our platforms to contribute to the spread of the Gospel.
ESOCS Devotional 10 July 2021
