Passage of the Day:
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in[a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead, Philippians 3:7-11.
Reflection:
Over the course of my life, things of the world have disappointed me. Whether this was a broken relationship, a failing sports team that I root for or emptiness that consumes my soul, experiencing heartbreak has a way of heightening your senses of what’s truly important in life. Based upon his own words in the passage above, the apostle Paul reached a point in his life that the only thing worth pursuing was faith in Christ. Perhaps, this is what Jesus meant by hungering and thirsting after righteousness.
Prayerful Action:
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well, Matthew 6:33.
Fueling your Faith this Spiritual Season:
In a letter written to the Church at Corinth, the apostle Paul refers to the expression, “Christians walk by faith, not by sight,” 2 Corinthians 5:7. People of faith don’t chase after a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Rather, faith in Christ is a day by day activity, stopping to ascertain, am I on the right track? Meanwhile, faith in Christ involves the belief in and expectation of God’s promises to become fulfilled in your own life, Philippians 1:6. Subsequently, walking in faith requires patience as you sort through the chaos of today so that you can celebrate the spiritual progress and victories of tomorrow.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
Today’s song illustrates the words of Jesus in Matthew 7:14. Faith in Christ, prayer and keeping in step with the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:25, will guide you down this Less Traveled Road.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 