In Phil 3:8-11, we find that Paul’s all-consuming desire is to know Christ in the fulness of His redemptive work. We grow in our knowledge of our Savior by the ordinary means of grace God has ordained. God has revealed Himself through the words of Scripture. Knowing Christ through his word provides a much clearer and secure revelation than mere feelings. Assurance based on feelings is subjective and unstable while assurance based on trusting in Christ on the basis of the Gospel is a sure and stable foundation. Our faith in God is strengthened, not by feelings but by God's faithful words in Scripture.