Look Up to Heaven
Philippians 3:1-21
An improper appraisal of earthly things can bring destruction (Philippians 3:19).
A 60-year-old Japanese man was rescued after the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan. He was found drifting on a rooftop 10 miles out in the ocean.
After his rescue, he was interviewed by the media. He said he knew a tsunami was coming and was fleeing for his life, but decided to turn back to get something from his house.
As a result of turning back, he and his wife were swept away in the tidal wave. Unfortunately, his wife did not survive. He was distracted from his goal by a material possession in the house.
Was what he turned back to retrieve of any great importance? Was it worth the cost?
The apostle Paul examined everything he considered valuable in his life and concluded it was all “loss” compared to knowing Christ.
When we compare Christ to our most cherished possessions, personal achievements and positions of influence, we will find it all to be a “loss.”
The word “loss” in verse 7 indicates something that is useless. In verse 8, Paul used a much stronger word to refer to his past achievements. He called them “rubbish.” The word means “dung.” Colossians 3:2 states, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
How can believers keep earthly things in proper perspective?
First, forget them. Paul said, “Forgetting those things which are behind” in verse 13. Paul set his mind on forgetting his past accomplishments and failures.
Second, focus on the future. Paul said, “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Paul’s focus was on “the prize.”
What is “the prize”? The “goal” Paul sought was the faithful completion of his ministry and life. The “prize” was the reward of faithfulness.
Third, finish the race. Paul encouraged the Philippians to live a life of faithfulness and follow his example of righteousness. Though some around them lived with their “mind on earthly things,” Paul urged the believers to conduct themselves with heaven in mind.
The “enemies of the cross” lived for their personal pleasure and bodily satisfaction. Paul reminded the believers that this world was not their home. They were citizens of another country. He called on them to “walk” as he did, for the time was coming when Jesus would “transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body.”
Melton– Lessons by Frankie Melton, pastor of Heath Springs Baptist Church, Heath Springs. He has a B.A. degree from Charleston Southern University, and a Ph.D. and M.Div. from Southern Seminary.