Philippians 3:3 - Putting confidence in Christ and not in the flesh

Philippians 3:3 for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and the glory of Christ Jesus, and put no confidence in the flesh.

Observation

Jesus said, the Father seeks worshipers who worship in Spirit and Truth (John 4:23) and Paul goes on to define that a little more in Philippians 3:3. Being faced with sect of Christians who were pushing for physical circumcision, Paul argues back with the sign of true Christ followers.

This verse challenges us to dig deep into our how we define being a Christian.  Paul say's to put no confidence in the flesh.  Yet so many times we judge someone's walk with Christ by fleshly standards.

We might judge their walk by church attendance, how often they are serving,  how many Christian friends they have,  etc. Or perhaps we hold ourselves up to these standards.  I know I have felt guilty about not serving as much as the next person, or attending church faithfully.  However, Paul and Jesus both challenge this way of thinking.

God wants the genuinely broken, God wants those who are diligently seeking Him and waiting for Him (Lamentations 3:25), God wants those who want Him.  It is hard to be broken, seek Him, and want Him, when you believe that through your actions you have it all together. Sometimes as Christians we can forget our absolute need for Christ while doing the very work of Christ.  However, at our lowest, Christ shows up and well, He shows out.  In our humble state, we know there is no one else that should receive glory for our redemption but Him.

Application

This verse is especially encouraging to me.  Sometimes I feel like I have been placed on a shelf. I look at my works and they seem so small compared to others. But that is putting confidence in the flesh and not in the redeeming power of Christ. I praise God for His plans for me. He has given me a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Even if I can't see it, I believe it to be true. Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the assurance of things not yet seen (Hebrews 11:1).

Prayer

Father, You created the heavens and the earth, as well as formed my inward being. You alone have redeemed me; You alone have set me free from sin. You have given me a devoted husband and children.  You take time each day to teach me Your word.  With one word You both encourage and strengthen me. I can't do anything without You, but all things with You (Philippians 4:13). Please uphold me with Your righteous right hand this day (Isaiah 41:10).  May You receive maximum glory with every breath I take today.