55-Days Devotional Journey - Day 16
June 16, 2025 (Monday)

Scripture:
"though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ."
Philippians 3:4–7 (ESV)

Reflection:
The apostle Paul expressed the concern that his credentials for ministry might be a liability for the workof the gospel. On the one hand, his impeccable qualifications and impressive record are really not that significant in the present work of God who empowers by his Spirit. On the other hand, such a resumé may actually lead to self-reliance which gets in the way of ministry work. Understanding this, Paul turns away from confidence in himself, and in the surrounding context of these verses, we find that he chooses know nothing but Christ alone.

In our midst, many have notable skills, training, background, and over the 55-year history of our church, even an impressive record of ministry. All this certainly gives reason to praise God. He has brought us together, he has sustained us over the years, and he has blessed us with years of ministry fruitfulness. Nevertheless, even as we celebrate with joy all of these blessings, let us like the apostle, hold lightly to what is so praiseworthy from a worldly point of view, and put our confidence for ongoing gospel work and fruitfulness in Christ alone. He is enough, and whatever we gain, we count as loss for his sake.

Reflection Question:
In what way(s) might you celebrate our (NYCBC's) collective abilities and ministry fruitfulness, while at the same time, make sure your joy and reliance is on Christ, and not our own qualifications and record?

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we give you praise and glory for you have invested in your flock at NYCBC abilities, gifts, and record of dedicated ministry for generations. May every generation of believers here, including this present one, rely on Christ alone for power to fulfill your purposes. May we be of one mind in this and know the joy that, alone, comes from knowing Christ. In Jesus' name. Amen.

By Pastor Richard Choy