Past Gains

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. ~ Philippians 3:7

To be selfish and self-centered comes easily to us; it’s in our DNA.  We were born into a sinful world with a sinful nature and our culture screams “Me! Me! Me!” so it’s no wonder we can easily become self-absorbed.  But to be Christ-centered instead of self-centered, well, that takes work, intentionality, a total surrender to our Maker.  People consider themselves holy and righteous by putting all their religious traditions and practices ahead of true, real and lasting personal relationships.  Paul listed in verses 4-6 all the reasons he was able to boost in the flesh, but after becoming a follower of Jesus, he would much rather give those accomplishments up to have more time, more fellowship and a richer relationship with Jesus Christ.  Many of us are living a life in hopes of acquiring power, money and prestige, but is it worth losing your faith, relationships and hope in Christ?  I am not saying that you can’t have it all; you can!  But we must be very aware and intentional about making sure Christ is our priority ahead of our worldly desires.  We must remember that nothing compares to knowing Him and no earthly treasure will ever be as great as our heavenly treasure.  Matthew 16:26 says, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?  Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?”  And in Matthew 6:24 the scriptures say, “No one can serve two masters.  Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.  You cannot serve both God and wealth.”  Having things, or desires is not a bad thing, as we know that all good gifts come from God, but putting our worldly desires ahead of our relationship with Christ is a slippery slope.  Ask the Holy Spirit to transform your mind and heart so that you are in His alignment and will for your life and watch change happen.  Your thoughts, dreams, desires and wants will be transformed and renewed. ~ Amen