But whatever were gains to me; I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 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.
(Philippians 3:7-8 NIV)
From an earthly perspective, Saul had every reason to brag. He was a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin. As a Pharisee, he had kept the law meticulously. Saul had education and determination. He had the world at his fingertips. Then Saul met Jesus on the road to Damascus, and everything changed instantly. He became Paul the Apostle and later declared that knowing Jesus was greater than any worldly achievement or birthright.
What do you value? A relationship with Christ surpasses everything we’ve ever done. Our earthly accomplishments are of no consequence unless they are in the service of His name. May we be willing to lay our things of temporal value to gain eternal riches. Knowing the Lord is the greatest treasure we could ever possess.