Philippians 3:4-7: 5 Day Devotional

September 3rd, 2024
by Molly Pace

Day 1: The Transformative Power of Christ
Paul's conversion from a persecutor of Christians to a devoted follower of Christ illustrates the transformative power of Jesus. His life took a complete 180-degree turn, showing that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. This transformation is not just a change in behavior but a fundamental shift in identity and purpose. Paul's story, detailed in Acts chapter 9, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of Christ.

Before his conversion, Paul was a zealous adherent to Jewish law and traditions, even persecuting Christians. However, after encountering Christ, he considered all his previous achievements as "loss" compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus. This radical shift in values underscores the cost of discipleship and the profound change that occurs when one truly follows Christ.

"And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 36:26, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a time when you experienced a significant change in your life because of your faith in Christ. How did this transformation impact your identity and purpose?

Day 2: The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus comes with a cost. Paul willingly gave up his status, achievements, and even his identity for the sake of Christ. This challenges us to consider what we are willing to sacrifice to follow Jesus. Are we prepared to lose the approval of important people, our achievements, and even our deeply held beliefs if they stand in the way of following Christ?

Paul's life before Christ was marked by rigorous adherence to Jewish law and traditions. He was circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, a Pharisee, and a zealous persecutor of the church. Yet, he considered all these achievements as "loss" compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. This radical shift in values underscores the cost of discipleship.

"Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:27, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?

Day 3: Beware of False Teachings
Paul warns us to be vigilant against false teachings that promise salvation through works or adherence to the law. True righteousness comes from faith in Christ alone. This is a crucial reminder to ground our faith in the truth of the gospel and not be swayed by teachings that deviate from it.

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul emphasizes that true righteousness comes from faith in Christ alone, not from works or adherence to the law. He warns against false teachings that promise salvation through human efforts. This is a vital reminder to remain grounded in the truth of the gospel and to be discerning of teachings that deviate from it.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on a teaching or belief you have encountered that seemed to promise salvation through works. How can you ensure that your faith remains grounded in the truth of the gospel?

Day 4: Unity in Christ
Paul emphasizes that our background, ethnicity, or achievements do not give us any special advantage before God. In Christ, there is no Greek or Jew, male or female, slave or free. Our unity and identity are found in Jesus alone, breaking down all walls of division. This is a powerful message in a world that often seeks to divide us along these very lines.

Paul's message to the Philippians highlights the unity that believers have in Christ. Regardless of our background, ethnicity, or achievements, we are all equal before God. This unity in Christ breaks down all walls of division and emphasizes that our identity is found in Jesus alone. This is a powerful reminder in a world that often seeks to divide us along these very lines.

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:28, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a person or group you find difficult to relate to because of differences in background. How can you seek unity in Christ with them today?

Day 5: Living for the Audience of One
Soren Kierkegaard's concept of living for the "audience of one" resonates deeply with Paul's message. Our actions and lives should be directed towards pleasing God alone, not seeking the approval of others. This is a call to authenticity in our faith, living out our beliefs with integrity and devotion to Christ.

Paul's life exemplifies living for the "audience of one." He was willing to give up his status, achievements, and even his identity for the sake of Christ. This challenges us to consider what we are willing to sacrifice to follow Jesus. Are we prepared to lose the approval of important people, our achievements, and even our deeply held beliefs if they stand in the way of following Christ?

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on a recent decision or action. Were you seeking to please God or others? How can you shift your focus to living for the "audience of one" in your daily life?