Two weeks ago, we discussed the need for life change. Then last week we talked about how this transformation takes place. But I fear that my short devotionals may leave some with the wrong impression. For you see, our spiritual transformation is not our chief goal, but a byproduct of our true goal.
Let me explain. If spiritual transformation is the goal and Christ is the means to that goal, then our relationship with Christ is merely a means to an end. I hope that sounds “off” to you even as you read it, because our relationship with Christ is not merely a means to an end.
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul expressed so well what I’m getting at. Paul wrote:
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 and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death.
Christ Himself is the goal! What could be greater than intimately knowing the God of the universe? Consider what Jesus said in Matthew 13:44–46, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
Jesus is the “treasure hidden in a field.” Jesus is “the pearl of great value.” Make Jesus your chief love. Pursue Him with every fiber in your being! Join Paul in admitting that everything is worthless compared with knowing Christ. Worship Him, praise Him, give your life to knowing Him better, long for His soon return.
In Colossians 2:6–7, Paul urged his readers, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
We received Christ by faith because of His great love for us. He has forgiven us, made us clean, holy before God. We are now God’s children. Let’s continue living in Jesus by faith each day, moment by moment.
Scripture Reading: Colossians 1:15–23
Personal Application
Spend time simply thanking and worshiping Jesus Christ. Tell Him you love Him and want to live your life in Him today and each day. If there’s anything preventing you from fully enjoying your relationship with Him, confess that to Him and receive His forgiveness and cleansing.
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5