PhilippiansSample

This chapter gives such a clear picture of the importance of being close to Jesus. The value of knowing Him. I love how real verse 8 says it: “Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Everything else. That means that nothing else in this world compares to being close to Jesus. Nothing else.

A common mindset exists that I once believed and have heard often, “I need to get right before I can go to Church and/or follow Jesus.” Verses 9 and 10 encourage us to lean into faith, put our faith in Jesus and get to know Him and allow Him to make us “right.” The closer we get to Jesus, the more we become like Him.

The second half of this chapter reminds us of how important our thoughts are. Our thoughts about ourselves. We can be our worst critic at times. Verse 13 says to forget the past and look forward to what lies ahead. Clinging to our past failures can slow us down. I encourage you to put into practice verse 16, “Hold on to the progress we have already made.” Train your mind to celebrate wins in your life. Celebrate that you are on your own individual spiritual journey and you are making progress!

Prayer points:

• Make the decision as you pray today to celebrate and thank God for what He has done and is doing in your life.
• Ask God for strength over your mind when it comes to your relationship with Him and the progress you have made.