Verse from Philippians

“向着目标竭力追求，为要得着神在基督耶稣里召我往上去得的奖赏。”

腓立比书 3:14 

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 3:14 

Today’s reading contains the most personal statement Paul makes in his letters. In the preceding verses (vv. 4–6), he unpacks his Jewish heritage, religious training, and great zeal for Judaism. The startling candor comes in verse 8 when, reflecting on what had defined his life prior to encountering Christ on the Damascus Road, he writes, “I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” Garbage—that’s strong! 

All the things that had driven him to persecute and kill were now counted worthless compared to the value of Christ. This speaks to the extraordinary value of relationship and rescue over religion and ritual. And that relationship with God through Christ is the strength that fuels our hearts in all the seasons of life—whether good or bad.

God provides the strength we need to persevere and grow.