Devotion – What Do You Treasure Most? (365/160)
- Jul 17
- 2 min read
Every heart has a treasure. What we value most will ultimately shape the direction of our lives.
Paul and Demas began as fellow workers in the gospel (Colossians 4:14; Philemon 24). Yet their lives ended on very different paths.
When Paul encountered Christ, everything changed. The achievements he once prized - his heritage, status, and religious accomplishments, became insignificant compared to knowing Jesus causing him to declare “Indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8). His deepest desire was not comfort or success but to know Christ more fully, to share in His sufferings, and to become like Him.
Demas, however, chose another path. Near the end of Paul's life comes this heartbreaking statement: “Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world” (2 Timothy 4:10). Somewhere along the way, the attractions of this age became more precious to him than the costly call of Christ. He traded eternal treasure for temporary comfort.
Though He possessed all the riches and glory of heaven, Jesus willingly laid them aside, humbled Himself in obedience to the Father, and endured the cross for the joy set before Him. (Philippians 2:6-8; Hebrews 12:2). He gave up everything so that we might gain everything in Him.
Pause and Ponder
What competes with Christ for my deepest affection and devotion?
Am I pursuing comfort and security more than I am pursuing Jesus?
What would it look like for me to value knowing Christ above everything else?
A Christian life is not built by adding Christ to our treasures but by discovering that He is our greatest treasure
Lord Jesus, guard my heart from lesser loves and teach me to treasure You above all else. Amen.
Extended Reading: Philippians 3:1-11
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