Martha Olawale

“What is more, 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…” Philippians 3:8-9

Have you ever traded in one car to buy another one or transferred one home’s equity to live in a different one? The change might stem from the need for something newer, bigger, smaller, more expensive, or cheaper. Whatever the reason, there’s always a motivation behind the decision to trade one thing to get something else. And regardless of why, there must be a reward attached to the decision.

God is the only essence that completes us and the force that puts our life in order. We can’t trade Him for anything. If He offers us all things that pertain to life and godliness, what do we have to lose following Him? Is it the inconvenience of spending a few minutes daily to acknowledge Him, gathering with other believers, or identifying as a Christian? Should we abandon the hope of Heaven for the uncertainty of the world we live in or trade good for evil? Nothing can replace God because He completes us and without Him, everything else is worthless.

To realize what you stand to gain following God, think of what you stand to lose, and you’ll see that without God, life is empty. Money can’t fill it; fame can’t fill it and all the power in the world can’t fill it. Paul said, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ.” There is no pleasure that can compare to the satisfaction that comes with being at peace with Christ. No sin is enticing to the extent of reducing the efficacy of the cross and no life is long enough compared to eternity. No matter all we try to fill our world with, until we let God in it, we can never be satisfied.

God’s love is deeper than anyone can ever reach and the peace we know placing our hands in His can never be matched by anything else. Our lives are nourished by His presence and in Him, we live, move, and have our being. Although it might come with storms and detours, when God rules your world, your victory is sure.