Scripture for Today: Philippians 3:8 “What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.”

Goats are picky eaters.  They are frequently seen in garbage dumps, so one would not think so.  It is a common belief that goats eat tin cans.  But in fact, they are pealing off the label to get to that tasty glue underneath!  Garbage dumps, even for goats, are not such a great dining experience!  No one wants this eye sore around their home, nor the odors.  There is very little that is positive to say about garbage.

This is just the point that Paul is making in our verse for today.  Paul’s background was stellar as a righteous, educated and privileged pharisee.  He was full of religious zeal and entrusted with a mission.  He had the admiration and respect of the world of his day.  At one point, his reputation and the social standing he had gained became for him a garbage dump.  What changed?

The surpassing value of knowing and loving Jesus has given Paul a different perspective.  This beautiful and satisfying relationship with Christ has made all his past accomplishments seem as worthless garbage.  The only redeeming factor remaining may be the tasty glue on can labels!

Paul had the most worthy goal in life; to gain Christ.  But it was something that could not happen as long as he valued his accomplishments, past or present, more than the Lord.  Caring too much about the world’s approbation somehow keeps us from having more of Christ.

He is worth far more than all else.  “You can have all this world.  Just give me Jesus.”  This is my prayer today.