A Simple, Personal Reflection on Philippians 3:1-11
If I’m honest, there have been so many things in my life that I’ve held onto, thinking they made me a better person—my achievements, good deeds, and even my image in the eyes of others. They gave me a sense of security and pride. But when I look at the life of the apostle Paul, I see someone who had every reason to be proud of his background and accomplishments. Yet, he called all of it “rubbish” compared to truly knowing Christ.
Paul’s words challenge me deeply. He’s not just talking about letting go of “bad” things, but even the “good” things that can get in the way of something better—a close, real, life-changing relationship with Jesus. He realized that nothing he could do—no matter how impressive—could make him right before God. Only Jesus could. And so, Paul was willing to lose it all, to “give up the inferior stuff” so he could gain something far greater.
That really hits home for me. It’s easy to get wrapped up in trying to earn approval, to build a list of things that make me “good enough.” But Paul invites us to let that go—not because those things are always bad in themselves, but because they can distract us from what really matters: knowing Jesus.
It’s like cleaning out your house. Sometimes you hold onto old, broken things because you’re used to them, but they’re just taking up space. Letting go can feel risky and uncomfortable, but it makes room for something new and far more valuable. That’s what it means for me to follow Christ—to set aside whatever keeps me from him, whether it’s my pride, my plans, or even my desire for comfort.
Paul doesn’t pretend this is easy. He talks about suffering loss and even calls his old accomplishments “garbage.” But he also describes a joy that comes from having real hope, a new identity, and a relationship with Jesus that changes everything. When I let go of lesser things, I’m not losing out—I’m gaining something so much better.
This passage reminds me that my worth isn’t in what I do, but in what Christ has done for me. I don’t have to earn God’s love; it’s already given through Jesus. All he asks is that I trust him, let go of whatever stands in the way, and follow where he leads.
So, my prayer is for the courage and clarity to keep my eyes on Christ, to rejoice in him, and to let go of whatever hinders me from truly knowing him. Because in the end, nothing compares to the joy of walking with Jesus and being transformed by his love.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 