The Gain and the Loss
In today’s digital world, a person seldom needs to “balance their checkbook.” In fact, I suppose most people under the age of 30 have never written a check, much less kept a check register. While the process has certainly evolved, the basic principles of debits and credits in our account remain. What is deposited or what is withdrawn is calculated as a balance that is either positive or negative. Many feel the pressure of inflation and deal with the reality of feeling like there is more month than there is money.
The very real interaction with our balance sheet paints a picture of what Paul writes in Philippians 3:7-11. He uses the words “gain” and “loss” to push against the way of the world. We often feel like our good behavior or possessions measure up and add to the deposit line. Comparatively, our failure and shame contribute to the overwhelming debt, or weight, of loss.
The hope we have is that Christ has imputed His righteousness in us. Any ability we have to attain or meet the standard of holiness exists in Him. Using the registry analogy, He is both the gain and the loss. He is both the debit and the credit. Any good we have is from Him, and He bears the weight of our sin, which balances out the loss.
Knowing this and living this are two different things. I pray we strive to know Him more and better understand the life of holiness He has called us to live and the empowerment He provides to do so! We can live confidently in Him because of what He has done and continues to do.
