But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. — Philippians 3:7 KJV
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. — Philippians 3:7 NIV
Reflection on Verse for Today
Paul did not reject his Roman citizenship or Jewish background, but he did come to understand the inadequacy of the world and all that it had to give. He also discovered that Christ alone is sufficient in all ways.
Paul compared everything he had before becoming a Christian to his new position in Christ and realized that, while these earthly things had been a source of pride for him, they were insignificant in light of what he had in Christ.
May we take away from Paul’s experience the crucial lesson that, even if we acquired all the wealth, fame, position, privilege, and power in the world, it would be worthless and would only serve to diminish the importance of knowing Him and putting on His righteousness.
My Prayer
Thank You, Lord God, for Jesus Christ. I pray that nothing will ever take away from my gratitude for my standing in Christ, despite the many advantages and gifts you have given me in this life. For the love of Christ Jesus, my Lord, I fervently hope that, like Paul, I will count as loss whatsoever gain I may have. I ask in the name of Jesus, Amen.
