Let's be real; in some way, shape, or form, every one of us is seeking approval from somewhere - our workplace, circle of friends, family, and yes, even the church. It can be overwhelming. Imagine being freed from any need to gain someone else's approval. We need that joy, which calls for a complete transformation of how we view approval and, more than that, Whose approval we truly need. Paul lays it out for us in the beginning of Philippians 3. 

Philippians 3:1-11

Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. 2 Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh. 3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh - 4 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: 5 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. 7 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. 8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith - 10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

For Adult Homes and Groups

1. Read Philippians 3:1-11 together.

2. When was the last time you applied for a job? How did you prove you were worthy of hiring? Did it cost you anything? What did it require? If you could describe the experience in one word, what would it be and why?

3. In this part of the letter, Paul essentially lays out his resume (vv4-6). What about it was considered impressive in his day? What led Paul to throw it all away, and how did it bring true joy to his life?

4. What things in your life might you or others consider impressive? Take a moment for honest reflection: do those things truly bring joy or serve as temporary placeholders for happiness? What if they suddenly went away?

5. True joy is realizing you have nothing to prove because you are approved in Christ. Pray together. Ask the Holy Spirit to remove the things (name them specifically!) that put “approval pressure” on you. Ask Him to fill you with His peace and joy - God’s approval of you in Jesus.

For Families with Kids

1. Read Philippians 3:1-11 together.

2. What things make you feel important, but after a time, they turn out to be less important than you first thought?

3. What does Paul say he counts as loss? (vv7-8)

4. What makes us righteous or approved? (v9)

5. Draw a picture of something you’re proud of, and then draw a picture of Jesus. Do you see any differences? Why?

6. What is Paul’s biggest goal in v9? Pray together out loud and ask the Holy Spirit to help you make it your top goal; end this prayer with the Lord’s Prayer.