HOW TO GRADUATE WITH HIGHEST HONOURS (2) ‘…That…day…God will reveal who his children really are.’ Romans 8:19 Paul once lived to persecute Christians; now he says, ‘For to me to live is Christ’ (Philippians 1:21). A CHANGE OF AMBITION- The old Paul, whose goal was to be a recognised champion of religion, says, ‘But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ’ (Philippians 3:7 NIV). A CHANGE OF MIND-The brilliant philosopher, Pharisee and lawyer renounces his self-seeking ways and writes, ‘Think the same way that Christ Jesus thought’ (Philippians 2:5 CEV). By living a sacrificial life. Salvation is free, but graduation with highest honours costs dearly: ‘I have suffered the loss of all things’ (Philippians 3:8 NKJV). Paul once had a comfortable life, then everything changed. He was beaten almost to death eight times. He faced danger at the hand of friend and foe. He endured nakedness, sleeplessness, starvation and thirst (2Corinthians 11:23-29). Did he get discouraged? Yes. Did he give up? No. ‘I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake…’ (2Corinthians 12:10 NAS). Did he pray for relief? Of course. Three times he asked the Lord to alleviate his suffering. When God replied, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness’ (v. 9 NLT), he learned to ‘take pleasure in…insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles’ (v. 10 NLT), leaning on God for strength. Where did he find such joy? Through ‘the infinite value of knowing Christ’ (Philippians 3:8 NLT). N.B Vs-Proverbs 19:21-23 New International Version (NIV) 21 Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. 22 What a person desires is unfailing love[a]; better to be poor than a liar. 23 The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.
Posted on: Wed, 31 Jul 2013 02:10:53 +0000
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