Scripture
18 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.
Reflection
In the verses preceding today’s passage Paul talks about him pressing on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called him heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14) and in verse 17 he asks believers to join others in following his example.
Paul goes on and talks about many who live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Many did live like that back in his days, and many still live as enemies of Christ now. His words are written with a burden for the lost, “even with tears”. How often do we think of those who don’t know Christ yet with that kind of burden and love?
As Paul talks about the destruction that will come as a result of those who self-indulge, who give into the desires of their flesh and glorify in their sin, I’m reminded of the contrast in Jesus’ words in Matthew 16: 24,25:
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.
We are called to not be of the world, to not have our mind set on earthly things, but we are sent into the world to fulfill the calling He has for us. Let’s press on!
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
