The word surpassing evokes a sense of awe and wonder. It speaks of something that goes beyond, exceeds, or transcends all expectations. In our spiritual walk, this term takes on profound meaning as it reflects the nature of God’s gifts—His peace, His worth, and His power. These gifts are not merely sufficient; they are extraordinary, surpassing what we can comprehend or imagine. Let us delve deeper into the richness of this word and how it reveals God’s character and His work in our lives.
The Surpassing Peace of God
In Philippians 4:7, Paul writes, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This peace is not like the fleeting calm the world offers; it is a divine tranquillity that exists even in the face of chaos. It is a peace so profound that it defies human logic—it surpasses understanding.
Consider the story of Daniel in the lions’ den (Daniel 6). Despite facing certain death for his unwavering faith in God, Daniel displayed an unshakable calm. His peace did not stem from the absence of danger but from his trust in God’s sovereignty. Similarly, Jesus calming the storm (Mark 4:39) illustrates this surpassing peace. As His disciples panicked in fear, Jesus simply said, “Peace, be still!” The storm obeyed Him, leaving behind a stillness that mirrored His divine authority.
This peace is available to us today. It does not promise a life free from trials but assures us that God’s presence will sustain us through them. When we feel overwhelmed by life’s storms, we can turn to Him in prayer and trust that His peace will guard our hearts and minds.
The Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ
In Philippians 3:8, Paul declares, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” To Paul, knowing Christ was not just valuable—it was incomparable. Everything else paled in significance when measured against the joy and fulfilment found in a relationship with Jesus.
Paul’s words challenge us to examine our priorities. What do we consider most important? Is it our career, possessions, or reputation? While these things have their place, they cannot satisfy the deepest longings of our souls. Only Christ can do that. Knowing Him means experiencing His love, grace, and power in ways that transform every aspect of our lives.
This surpassing worth compels us to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with Christ. It does not mean abandoning responsibilities or relationships but reordering our hearts so that He remains at the centre. As we pursue Him above all else, we find true purpose and joy.
The Surpassing Power of God
Paul also speaks of God’s “all-surpassing power” in 2 Corinthians 4:7: “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” Here, Paul uses the metaphor of fragile clay jars to describe human weakness. Yet within these jars resides a treasure—God’s power—that far exceeds human strength.
This power enables believers to endure trials and accomplish what would otherwise be impossible. Paul himself experienced this power as he faced persecution and hardship for the sake of the gospel. He wrote, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). These words remind us that while life may bring challenges, God’s power sustains us and brings glory to His name.
God’s power is also transformative. It changes hearts and lives in ways that testify to His greatness. For example, consider the woman who touched Jesus’ cloak in faith (Mark 5:27-34). After years of suffering and rejection due to her illness, she experienced healing through His power. Her story reminds us that no situation is beyond God’s ability to redeem.
Living a Life That Surpasses
To live a life that surpasses is to embrace these divine gifts—peace, worth, and power—and let them shape our journey. It means trusting God even when circumstances seem dire because we know His peace will guard us. It means valuing Christ above all else because He alone satisfies our deepest needs. And it means relying on His power to overcome obstacles and fulfil His purposes for our lives.
This kind of life requires faith—a faith that sees beyond what is visible and trusts in what is eternal. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 4:18: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
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Encouragement for Today
If you are struggling today—whether with anxiety about the future or feelings of inadequacy—take heart in knowing that God’s gifts are surpassing in every way. His peace can calm your fears when nothing else can. His presence can fill your heart with joy even in sorrow. And His power can strengthen you for whatever lies ahead.
Let these truths inspire you to live boldly for Christ. Trust Him with your worries and burdens because He cares for you deeply. Seek Him above all else because He alone is worthy. And rely on His strength because it is made perfect in your weakness.
Remember: You are loved by a God who surpasses all understanding—a God whose gifts exceed anything this world could ever offer.
