August 15
The Peace of
Knowing Christ
Philippians 3:8
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...
Daily Steps
As this devotional journey concludes, it is essential to return to the core truth that fuels all Christian peace and endurance: the unsurpassed value of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This verse provides the final motivation for the new believer: the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.
The peace in this certainty is found in ultimate priority:
The Ultimate Loss: The Apostle Paul reflects on all his worldly achievements and considers them "a loss" and even "garbage" compared to the one true prize. This radical prioritization eliminates the anxiety associated with chasing temporary, conditional peace (Day 222) offered by the world (e.g., reputation, wealth, status).
The Surpassing Worth: The singular goal that eclipses all others is "the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord." This personal, intimate knowledge of the Savior (The Great High Priest, Day 202) is the inexhaustible source of all joy and tranquility.
The Result is Gain: By accepting the temporary loss of the world's treasures, Paul declares, "that I may gain Christ." This final statement secures the believer's unfailing assurance (Day 222): the choice to prioritize Christ is a choice that guarantees the greatest possible eternal gain and the final peace (Day 227).
Your final peace is secured by knowing Christ. Fix your gaze on the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, considering all worldly gain as loss, that you may gain the ultimate prize and final peace in Him.
Reflective Question
If you were to honestly apply the word "garbage" to one thing in your life that currently distracts you from knowing Christ, what would it be? What is one way you can actively pursue and demonstrate the surpassing worth of your relationship with Jesus today?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to value the temporary things of this world. I pray for the spiritual vision to truly see the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.
Give me the courage to consider everything else a loss, that I may fully gain Christ. Secure my final peace today in the certainty that You are my ultimate priority and most treasured prize. Amen.
