Devotionals

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In Philippians 3, Paul talks about his whole-hearted commitment to Christ. I am amazed at the strength of his words as he describes the value he has regarding his relationship with Christ. The depth of his faith and the devotion he has to the Gospel is phenomenal, and his undying submission to all that encompasses is beyond impressive.

Paul talks about loosing everything that he used to value in order to appreciate the unmeasured value of Christ Jesus. He recognizes that what he has gained through the change in his focus is righteousness, an unbreakable connection to Christ, and ultimately eternal life. He proclaims that the suffering and hard work that he goes through is worth it because it only draws him closer to his goal, that is to be with Christ in glory.

When I read these words I have mixed feelings. On one hand, I get excited to hear the promises of Christ as Paul explains them. To be so absorbed in my faith that I do not worry about the things in this life sounds wonderful. I long to have his passion for Christ and to believe so thoroughly that Christ is the center of everything in my life.

On the other hand, I struggle with what Paul says in this passage because I am not at that level. I worry about all sorts of things, like, money, my family, my friends, the weather, and my job to name a few. So many times, those things overshadow my connection to Christ. It's like as my anxieties increase, my faith decreases!

I don't know how to get this level of faith. How does one believe so completely that all other things are second to one's faith? I don't really have an answer to that question other than the standard answers: pray, read my Bible, go to church, etc.

What this passage does do is makes me ponder where my faith falls within my priorities. In addition it makes me long for that level of commitment. So, although I don't have a direct answer as to how to strengthen my faith per se, I think I will praise God for provoking me to desire a stronger, more complete faith.

I will add that a little further into the book of Philippians I found hope and comfort to this dilemma. In Phillippians 4:6, the Bible does give some direction. I am told to "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God." I think I will go with that, and ask God to increase my faith. How about you?

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