July 9 Scripture Reading

Scripture Readings:  Psalm 119:49-56, I Chronicles 9-10, Philippians 3:1-4:1

Reflection Verses:  Philippians 3:7-8

Reflection:  To Paul, nothing else mattered in comparison to Christ. This included his religion, his family, his career, and his past accomplishments (Philippians 3:5–6). His single goal was Christ. Paul further emphasizes this focus when he notes what he has given up for the sake of the gospel. From Paul’s perspective, he had sacrificed all of the worldly accomplishments mentioned in the prior verses. He had left Jerusalem and the temple in exchange for Rome and imprisonment. He had no freedom to travel or to live as he pleased. Yet he thought of those prior glories as “rubbish.” That should be every Believer’s perspective as we navigate the “new life” that we have in Jesus.

Prayer:  Lord God, I am mindful that the things of this world are only temporary. Thank You, Lord, for changing the focus of my heart to be on You and not on the trappings of my life.  Thank You for helping me realize that the things of this world really have no value in relation to knowing Christ and the power of the resurrection.  This I will pursue more earnestly… In Jesus’ Name.  Amen.