Embrace
I Want to Know

Scripture Reading:  Philippians 3:7-14

Key Verse: Philippians 3:10

I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death

When the Apostle Paul said he wanted to “know Him,” he used a Greek word (ginosko) that indicates a very intimate knowledge.  In fact, this word was used as a Jewish idiom for sexual intercourse between a man and a woman.  When a person has come to the point in their pursuit of God that they are ready to embrace Christ, they are hungry to truly know Him.  It is no longer a casual acquaintance that will satisfy.  Those who have come to this point will testify to a deep desire to understand Christ and be in a personal relationship with Him.

            In verse eight of this same section of scripture, the apostle testified to the fact that everything else was considered a loss in comparison to knowing Christ Jesus.  The treasures of this world turned into rubbish when compared to the greatness of gaining Christ.  Yes, Paul’s pursuit of God and His truth led him to embrace Jesus Christ as his Lord.

            Have you come to the point in your search that you want to know Christ—truly know Him?  You’ll know by the fact that you crave to read the Bible and understand it.  You will find yourself preoccupied with spiritual things and losing interest in the things of this world.  Gaining material wealth seems less important than gaining Christ Jesus!

Father, I want to draw up close to you.  I want to know you personally.  Help me to embrace all of you.  In Jesus’ name, amen.