But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
Philippians 3:7 NIV
Considered Loss
Team Canada’s loss to Team USA in February of last year was deflating for a variety of reasons, including the fact that Sidney Crosby’s 15-year unbeaten streak came to an end. Crosby entered the contest with an unbeaten streak that stretched 26 games over that decade and a half. The streak endured for most of Crosby’s NHL career as the 20-year veteran was only 22-years-old during the 2010 Winter Olympics when the winning streak began.
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Our society puts a lot of emphasis on working hard to get ahead. We are taught to build our own portfolio, to have a bigger house, a newer car, a bigger bank account – those are the things that count. The Kingdom of God operates on a totally different basis. In Philippians 3:7, Paul writes, “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.” Paul had every reason to boast—his heritage, education, and religious zeal were unmatched. Yet, when he encountered Christ, everything changed. What once seemed valuable became worthless compared to knowing Jesus. We need to take time today to examine our own hearts. What are we holding onto that might be keeping us from fully embracing Christ? Is it pride, comfort, ambition, or fear? Paul’s surrender wasn’t a loss—it was a gain of eternal worth. He discovered that intimacy with Christ far surpasses any earthly reward. Let this be a moment of reflection. Are we willing to lay down our “gains” for the sake of knowing Him more deeply? True transformation begins when we release what we think we need and receive what God knows we truly need—His presence, His grace, His love.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley