The Treasure Beyond the Rubbish
OPENING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, open our hearts to see the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. May Your Spirit guide us to value what truly matters and to let go of what does not. Amen.
"But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord."
Philippians 3:7-8 (ESV)
REFLECT:
In a world that often measures success by accumulation, the Apostle Paul offers a radical perspective. He speaks of counting all his worldly gains as loss compared to the value of knowing Christ. This isn't just a theoretical exercise for Paul; it's a lived reality. The message highlighted how Paul, once a persecutor of Christians, found his true identity and purpose in Christ. His transformation was so profound that he considered his previous achievements as mere rubbish.
Our guest speaker, Julie Bullock shared a poignant story about Bill Bequette, a man who, even in the face of terminal illness, lived out this truth. Bill's life was a testament to valuing eternal treasures over earthly ones. He invested in people, particularly those society often overlooks, embodying the love of Jesus. His legacy challenges us to evaluate what we hold dear and to consider if we, too, are willing to count our gains as loss for Christ.
This passage invites us to a deeper relationship with Jesus, one that surpasses all earthly accolades. It calls us to examine our lives and ask if we are truly willing to let go of what the world deems valuable for the sake of knowing Christ more intimately. The message encourages us to see Jesus as worth every sacrifice, every act of service, and every moment of devotion.
As you reflect on this, consider what you might need to count as loss in your own life. What are the "rubbish" things that distract you from the surpassing worth of knowing Christ? Let this be a time of honest evaluation and a step towards a more Christ-centered life.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will give boldly because all things are possible through Jesus. Can you identify one area of your life where you are holding onto worldly gains? Pray for the strength to release it and seek the deeper joy of knowing Christ.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the gift of knowing You. Help us to see the true value in our relationship with You and to let go of anything that hinders our walk. May our lives reflect Your worth. Amen.