On Balance

Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.
Philippians 3:8a

Have you ever played the game, “How much would it take to…”? It is played to see how much money it would take to get someone to do something they don’t want to do. For example, “Would you lick a worm for $100?”  

This game is similar to how we make many of our decision in life, on a cost-benefit analysis. Should I look for a new job, which could be more exciting or stick with my job because it is stable? Do I go to this school that costs more with a notable reputation or another school that I can afford but is less prestigious? Do I forgive my sibling and begin to rebuild the relationship or stay silent and avoid the hassle?

There are so many decisions, goals, hopes, and dreams for which we analyze and count the costs to achieve and it has always been this way for each and every human. Paul says, I would trade all my accomplishments, goals, and everything that is valued among people everywhere for deep intimacy with Christ Jesus my Lord. This is so personal and powerful. Paul’s anointed savior and God rescued him from the comparison trap and redeemed him for a purposeful and eternal life with Him.

How much is knowing Christ Jesus the Lord worth to you? Are you counting everything else as a loss, as secondary, compared to the value of knowing Jesus? This hopeful orientation of our hearts and minds values Christ above all, always. Let’s pray for one another to pursue this view of a balanced life with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength until we see him face to face.

Christ Jesus our Lord,
We cherish and love you. Help us to meditate on your great worth. There is no one like you and we worship you for all that you are, all that you have done, and with the hope of heaven in our souls. We want to orient our lives to reflect our deep knowledge of you. May your Spirit draw us closer to you each day. Amen