But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith- that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

Philippians 3: 7-11

As I wrote yesterday’s email on the idea of sanctification I was reminded again of a song by Matthew Ward with the title, “Knowing You.” I’ve shared these lyrics before, but they’re worth reviewing again – at least for me.

.All I once held dear built my life upon 
All this world reveres, and wars to own 
All I once thought gain I have counted loss 
Spent and worthless now, compared to this 

Knowing you, Jesus knowing you 
There is no greater thing 
You're my all you're the best 
You're my joy, my righteousness 
And I love you ,Lord 

Paul counted everything as absolutely worthless compared to knowing – really knowing – Christ. This is deeper than merely agreeing with the truth of Scripture. Paul let everything go – his position, his power, his education – everything for his affection for Christ.

What do you hold dear? What or who is most important in your life?

Paul was determined that nothing would get in the way of his relationship with the living Christ. It is quite an example to follow. This is why Paul could say, “be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” ( 1 Corinthians 11:1).