Exaltation & Reproach

philippians 3 study

 "Put no confidence in the flesh." Yeah, I need to stop exalting myself. Who do I think I am? When I read Paul's biography that he gives in verses 4-6, I am humbled.  For awhile, even in my Christian walk, I found security and identity in my past and it gave me worldly confidence.  When I shared my testimony I had pride in sharing specifics about my party days of getting drunk and having sex.  For so long that was my identity, and I thought my Christian friends would be impressed by it.  Although my testimony of transformation hasn't changed, I find no identity with my past anymore.  I keep focusing on my future with Him rather than remembering my past without.  Don't place importance or idol your past- but look forward to what Christ is going to do in you for the glory of His name.  Move forward in your relationship with Him- continue to mature and grow.  May your purpose be for the Kingdom and not for this earth.  May all you do be for Him and the eternal reward rather than for an earthly reward. How much confidence do you put in yourself? Let's step off our self-made pedestal and be humble, as Jesus was humble. 

    I want to live above reproach.  It's not that I want to be exalted, but in humility, I want my life to reflect Jesus so much, that others could follow my example of loving Jesus and living for Him. We should look to examples that God has placed on this earth.  Ultimately Jesus is the best example, but there are men and women of God who are above reproach and who we can look to as a role model in following Jesus on this earth.  Who is your earthly example?  Could you say as Paul did, "imitate me"?

~Leanne~