For the Love of a Lifestyle: "I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus"

For example, when Paul writes in chapter 3 that he counts "all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord," he is actually speaking of saving faith. I say that because right before this he speaks of all the reasons he has for putting confidence in the flesh. In human terms, he had more right than most to think he was alright before God, but he admits that all that was worthless in light of the salvation that is found in Christ. I guess I always considered this "knowing Christ" idea as how a believer might grow in a deeper knowledge of Christ, becoming more intimate with Him through the process of sanctification. While Paul does seem to have this growing relationship in mind, it seems clear that he is referring to saving faith, of "knowing Christ" in a salvific sense. The surrounding verses really lend themselves to that conclusion.

Soon after, Paul writes that he presses on to "lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus." The phrase "I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus" just gripped me. I belong to Him. He has laid hold of me, and He is never letting go. What comfort and joy I have found in meditating on that truth this morning! I am reminded of John 10, where Christ speaks of being the Good Shepherd, of knowing and protecting His own, and where He makes the statement that "no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand" (verse 28). It was great comfort to me to remind myself over and over again of that truth this morning. My salvation has been secured by the Father through the Son. It is permanent. What have I to fear? My position in Him is secure and eternal. "I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus."

The familiar verse "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me" was a timely reminder. In the midst of making all kinds of decisions and facing all kinds of change and uncertainty, it is good to be reminded that Christ, the one who conquered death, provides me the strength for all things. Context reveals that this was Paul's secret to contentedness. Meditating on the fact that my strength for all things and for every circumstance comes from Christ Himself really leaves no opportunity for discontent. When I am truly aware of this fact, and understand what it means to have the power of the Savior on my side, there is nothing that can shake me. No circumstance, no uncertainty, no decision.... nothing.