Joy — Philippians 3 – Monday
TODAY’S VERSE
Philippians 3:4
“...though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more…” (ESV)
Have you ever had a moment where you boasted about something, and it backfired? I’ve had this happen more times than I’m willing to admit, but probably one of the most humbling (and humiliating) experiences in my life was at a college visit.
I was wrapping up the spring semester during my final year as an undergraduate student and had started the process of applying to different professional programs. Although it was bittersweet to think about leaving behind the campus where I’d spent the last four years of my life, I was excited about the new possibilities on the horizon…until I walked in the building.
After eavesdropping on a few conversations by my peers, it became abundantly clear I was way out of my league. And soon my private, internal dialogue became public:
“Mr. Williams…are you here?”
“Yes, ma’am. Right here.”
“Hmm…I’m kind of surprised to see you here.”
“That makes two of us.”
“No, in all seriousness…I’m looking at your GPA, and it’s not nearly as competitive as the other applicants.”
“Someone encouraged me to still apply because of how competitive and prestigious our undergraduate institution is.”
“I’m looking at this name, and I’ve never heard of it…”
Like Andy Bernard from The Office (obnoxiously proud Cornell alum), I used to pull my alma mater card whenever and wherever I could. But in this moment, that card got declined. I guess the Bible’s right: Pride comes before the fall (Proverbs 16:18). And that fall is hard.
At the end of the day, our credentials can only carry us so far. It doesn’t matter if our confidence is in our religious credentials, cultural credentials, or any other credentials. When it’s all said and done, the only name that matters is Jesus.
That’s one of the many reasons I’m so grateful for the wisdom of God’s Word. Paul says in Philippians 3:3: “...glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.” God’s Kingdom economy works differently. He doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Case in point: Just look at all of the people God uses throughout the pages of Scripture!
Which is why there’s so much irony in God calling someone like me into vocational ministry. No Bible College background. No seminary degree. No formal theological training. Just a deep love for God, His Word, and His people. God’s also blessed me with the best support system. I have nothing else to point to other than Him!
It’s not our gifts that get us into Heaven. It’s not our goals that get us into Heaven. It’s not our grit that gets us into Heaven. It’s only by God’s grace through the person and work of Jesus. That’s why we rejoice in Jesus and put no confidence in our flesh. But the question is: Do you know Him?
APPLICATION
Read and meditate on Jeremiah 9:23-24. Allow this text to cultivate the soil of humility in you, so God can grow His fruit through you.
PRAYER
“God, when I’m tempted to put my confidence in anything or anyone other than Jesus, remind me to boast in no other name except His. Thank You for Your grace, Your mercy, and Your steadfast love even in my moments of pride. Amen.”