Read John 16:1-4 + Philippians 3:7-8 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. Why did Jesus tell His disciples they’d be hated?
2. What did Paul consider worthless or loss?
3. What did he consider valuable?
Reflect
Jesus knows what’s best for His people: more of Himself. As He shared His final teaching with the disciples, He left them with the encouragement to hold onto their faith. Similarly, Paul wrote that everything he had – his status and privileges in society, his heritage and strict adherence to the Old Testament laws – he counted all as garbage compared to the incalculable worth of knowing Jesus.
We’ve been warned that we’ll experience hatred when we follow Jesus, but we can have confidence that there’s nothing more valuable than knowing Him. The Spirit ensured these words were written down, giving believers throughout time encouragement to hold onto their faith, no matter what we face. Our faith is more important than the earthly status, prosperity, or possessions we could accumulate. It’s only by faith we’re saved.
As you read yesterday, you’ll likely lose things when people know you follow Jesus. But no matter what you lose, what Paul said is still true: Nothing can compare to the great value of knowing Christ. He’s your Savior and Lord. He calls you friend, and He’s been pursuing you since before you were born because He loves you.
Respond
What have you lost because of your faith in Jesus? How does that compare to knowing Him? Who in your life can you share Him with? Spend some time in prayer thanking God for His love and asking Him for a heart that desires more of Him.