Most of us appreciate garbage day. It’s satisfying to see the mess hauled away, the bins emptied, and the smell gone. There’s relief in that moment—something unwanted is no longer taking up space.

Paul taps into a similar image in Philippians 3. He’s not talking about trash on the curb, though. He’s talking about the stuff that piles up in our hearts—achievements, status, appearances, self-effort—and how clinging to it can quietly block our view of Jesus.

He writes that everything he once thought gave him value—his pedigree, his spiritual résumé, even his good intentions—he now considers “garbage” compared to knowing Christ. That word isn’t just a gentle toss-aside either. It’s strong. He’s saying: This stuff needs to go.

What Are You Holding Onto?

Paul’s question to the Philippians still hits home today: What are you counting on to prove your life is worthwhile?

We all have something. It might be success, education, family, image, security, or even spiritual performance. And none of these are bad in themselves—but when they become our foundation, we start measuring ourselves by things that won’t last.

Imagine if that thing disappeared—would you still know your worth?

Jesus doesn’t ask us to try harder. He invites us to let go. To empty our arms so we can fully embrace Him—and be embraced in return.

The Gift of the Shaking

We’re living in a world where everything feels like it’s being shaken. Systems we used to count on—healthcare, finances, even community structures—are under pressure. It’s unsettling.

But Scripture reminds us: the shaking isn’t punishment. It’s an invitation.

Hebrews 12 speaks of a kingdom that cannot be shaken. God uses these moments to clear the clutter, to wake us up, to make space for what’s lasting. The question isn’t “How do I hang on?” but “What do I need to let go of?”

When Paul let go of what propped him up, he didn’t lose himself. He found life. He found joy. He found Jesus.

An Invitation to Grow

It’s about surrender. Not about self-improvement or checking off spiritual boxes. It’s about clearing out the inner clutter that keeps us from being fully present to Jesus.

Spiritual growth often happens quietly—in prayer, in Scripture, in small decisions made when no one’s watching. And as we grow, the people around us get to experience more of Christ through us.

The best gift we can offer our families, friends, and communities isn’t polished perfection. It’s a life being shaped by Jesus. A heart willing to be cleared out and filled again with something better.

Take It to the Curb

If today is “garbage day” for your soul, what’s one thing you need to toss?

Take a moment to sit with these questions:

• What have I been relying on to feel valuable or secure?
• Is there something that used to serve me but now just takes up space?
• Where is Jesus inviting me to surrender—so He can fill that space with something better?

You might want to write it down. Tear it up. Toss it in the bin.

Pray a simple prayer like, “Jesus, I don’t want this to take up space anymore. I want more of You.”

Clearing the way begins with a willing heart, not a perfect plan.

Let love grow. Let grace in. Let Jesus take the trash.