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Philippians 3:10 - Knowing Christ And The Power Of His Resurrection.

Philippians 3:10 (ESV) that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

INTRODUCTION

When we are united with Christ by trusting in him, we experience the power that raised him from the dead. That same mighty power will help us live morally renewed and regenerated lives. But before we can walk in newness of life, we must also die to sin. Just as the resurrection gives us Christ's power to live for him, his crucifixion marks the death of our old sinful nature. We can't know the victory of the resurrection without personally applying the crucifixion.  [Life Application SB]

COMMENTARY PEARL

A Life-Shaping Revelation
   There is a massive difference between knowing about Christ and being captivated by Him. True Christianity isn't a list of platitudes on how to live a better life. Quick-fix advice about how to heal your relationships or become a better leader might seem fine in the short run, but strategies that are man-made won't satisfy your soul.
   Be aware that you can have an intellectual knowledge of Christ without ever actually knowing Him. If You Want A True And Life-Shaping Revelation Of Jesus, You Must Move Beyond Head Knowledge And Experience Heart Knowledge. It's countercultural to live surrendered to a risen Savior. It means laying down your desires and trusting that there is a God who gives you more than you'd ever ask for or imagine.
   Are you eager and ready to know Him? Ready to live a radical life committed to the risen King? When you are, Jesus is ready and eager to reveal Himself to you. He knows that it's Only His Spirit And His Word That Can Complete The Longings Of Your Soul.
   Dear Jesus, I don't want just the details and the facts, I Want A Deep Relationship And The Friendship That Comes With Walking Close To You. [Grace and Glory by Louie Giglio]

COMMENTARY

Handling Difficult Circumstances
   The apostle Paul understood how to handle tough circumstances. Even while he was confined in a prison cell, he kept his eyes on Christ and trusted firmly in the Savior. Therefore, despite being in chains, he was able to celebrate the Lord's work in his life. In fact, the epistle he wrote from jail to the Philippians was filled with rejoicing (1:18; 2:18; 3:1).
   Focusing on Christ is neither a natural reaction nor an easy one. Our Instinct Is To Dwell On The Situation At Hand, Searching For Solutions Or Stewing Over The Pain And Difficulty. As A Result, Troubles Look Scary And Overwhelm Us With A Sense Of Defeat.
   However, Fear And Defeat Cannot Live Long In A Heart That Trusts The Lord. I'm Not Saying You'll Forget What You're Going Through, But You Can Choose To Dwell On His Provision And Care Instead. He Is The Deliverer (2 Cor. 1:10). He Is The Healer (Deut. 32:39). He Is The Guide (Prov. 3:6).  The Believer Who Lays Claim To Divine Promises Discovers That God Pushes Back Negative Emotions. In Their Place, Hope, Confidence, And Contentment Take Up Residence (Phil. 4:11). You Aren't Going To Be Happy About A Difficult Situation, But You Can Be Satisfied That God Is In Control And Up To Something Good In The Midst Of Trouble.
   The Lord's principles and promises don't change, no matter how severe or painful the situation is. Focus On Christ Instead Of The Circumstances - God Will Comfort Your Heart And Bring You Safely Through The Trial. Then you can answer Paul's call to "rejoice in the Lord always" (Phil. 4:4). [In Touch Daily Devotional by Charles Stanley at www.intouch.org]

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

   * Seek A Deep Relationship With Jesus By Walking Close To Him.

   * Move Beyond Head Knowledge And Experience Heart Knowledge By His Spirit And
     His Word.

   * Focus On Christ Instead Of Your Circumstances.

   * Choose To Dwell On His Care And Provisions: He Is Our Deliverer (2 Co.
     1:10), Our Healer (Deu. 32:39), Our Guide (Pro. 3:6).

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

Philippians 3:10 - Becoming Like Jesus In His Death.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2017/20170906-1054.html

Luke 9:23 - How To Follow Jesus.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2016/20160222-1529.html

Luke 9:23 - Living For Eternity.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2008/20080508-2032.html

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/