Satisfied — Philippians 3
A Reflection on Sanctification and Spiritual Hunger
We live in a world of constant desire. We are always chasing more — more things, more money, more success. From Lay’s chips to the latest tech or tool, we’re conditioned to never feel fully satisfied. Yet, Scripture speaks of a different kind of satisfaction — one that’s not about fleeting pleasure, but about having eternal purpose. This weeks sermon from pastor Dewayne invites us to examine both what satisfies us and what doesn’t satisfy — especially when it comes to our walk with God.
1. Worldly Satisfaction Is Temporary
In the Bible the term “satisfaction” is often tied to food … “they ate and were satisfied.” But like the old Lay’s chip commercial, “you can’t eat just one.” Our craving for more is often tied to earthly things. Proverbs 13:4 reminds us that while the lazy may crave and get nothing, the diligent are fully satisfied. Still, worldly satisfaction fades quickly and leaves us wanting.
2. True Satisfaction Is Found in Sanctification
Deep, lasting satisfaction comes through sanctification — being made holy through the work of Jesus. Sanctification means being set apart from sin and being made right in God’s eyes — not by our own merit, but through Christ’s blood. Verses like 1 Corinthians 6:11 and Acts 20:32 highlight the washing, justification, and sanctification we receive through Jesus. This is the kind of satisfaction that truly matters — one that results in eternal life.
3. Sanctification Should Inspire Spiritual Drive
Even though we are satisfied in Christ, that doesn’t mean we stop growing. Philippians 2:12 calls us to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” We're not earning salvation — but we are pursuing growth. Sanctification is both a gift and a process. Paul’s letters remind us that sanctification unites believers around the world — from Thailand to Colombia — as one body, set apart by grace.
4. A Holy Discontent: Don’t Be Satisfied With Where You Are
While we should be satisfied in our position in Christ, we should never be satisfied with our progress. Paul wasn’t. He writes in Philippians 3 that he had not “attained” everything — but was pressing on, straining forward. Christians should have a holy dissatisfaction — always longing for more love, more faith, more spiritual growth (Philippians 1:9, 2 Thessalonians 1:3, 2 Corinthians 4:15).
5. The Danger of Worldly Dissatisfaction
Ezekiel 16 paints a bleak picture of people turning from God to worldly pursuits, never satisfied — prostituting themselves to idols and foreign influences. When we seek satisfaction outside of God, it never fills us. We become spiritually starved. True satisfaction comes from growing in love, faith, and grace — and sharing Christ with others.
Bottom Line
One day, the believer will awake to see the face of Jesus — and in that moment, be completely satisfied (Psalm 17:15). Until then, we are to live in the tension: satisfied in what Christ has done, yet unsatisfied with where we are — because there is always more growth, more love, more faith to pursue.