Philippians 3:7
The Great Reversal

Credentials won by faithful study under a wise teacher
Success I would like to claim because I am a preacher
Things considered to one’s credit only are in vain
The only value worth considering is, “What does my Lord gain?”

People may at times express some flattering communication
Over something successfully done or some lengthy dissertation
Treat those praises as their response and take them only lightly
The object of any words and service is to honor God more highly.

Travel to distant places and the challenges that brings
Are often quite misunderstood when people our praises sing
Those efforts must be for God alone under the Spirit’s guidance
If there is underlying deception, it is time for my repentance.

Past achievements and present work may get in the way
Of the ongoing personal relationship with Christ, needed every day
Who cares who gets the credit if God is honored thus
We all need to remember success doesn’t depend on us.

We dare not be self-centered; the center place belongs to Him
Who gave us this new life and then sent us out to win
Others who are lost in darkness, and tell them of God’s love
That they too would experience the eternal life we have.

Do not consider it profit because you may seem successful
Don’t think there is virtue in appearing to be stressful
Because pride in any of us takes many different forms
And no good will ultimately come to those tooting their own horns.

Throw all of self overboard and count all loss for Christ
Self-aggrandizement is always sin, though others think it’s nice
Throw all advertisement of your work to the four winds
And be assured God knows when we give all glory to Him.