SO MUCH GARBAGE…

“You know my pedigree: a legitimate birth, circumcised on the eighth day; an Israelite from the elite tribe of Benjamin; a strict and devout adherent to God’s law; a fiery defender of the purity of my religion, even to the point of persecuting the church; a meticulous observer of everything set down in God’s law Book.” (Philippians 3:5-6, The Message)

To be blunt: you will only feel good about yourself, if you base your worth on what God has accomplished through the greatest accomplishment of all: the redeeming sacrifice, the resurrection power of Jesus Christ our Lord.

In fact he now considers his trophies worthless, mere rubbish, garbage – “…compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord….” (Philippians 3:8)

Yes righteousness: a deep and abiding sense of worthiness, not dependent on my accomplishments, but the accomplishments of God, “…through faith in Christ…” (Philippians 3:9).

“…the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever… [as we abide]…in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. (Isaiah 32:17-18).

For out of rest comes power – as we come to know, in the concluding words of Paul – “Christ and the power of His resurrection…” (Philippians 3:10)