Philippians 2:12-18
Do Everything Without Grumbling
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me. Philippians 2:12-18 (NIV)
These verses remind me of growing up on the farm. My parents had me do chores and work on the farm when, at least in my mind, my friends that lived in town got to spend their days playing and having fun. Did I do it without grumbling? I wish I could say I did, but the truth is far from it. My parents still like to remind me of my infamous line, “It’s not my fault I live on a farm!” It was something I like to remind them of when I was complaining about having to work. However, once I was old enough and left the farm, I could appreciate everything that hard work afforded me and taught me - invaluable lessons that prepared me for the hard times and challenges that would undoubtedly come my way throughout life away from home.
Just like my earthly parents always want the best for me, whether I can recognize it at the time or not, God ALWAYS wants the best for me too! And just like my parents will always forgive me when I don’t act as they would like, God will ALWAYS forgive me too!
Our earthly parents cannot always be with us. They must trust that they taught us well and that we will take that knowledge and put it to good use. However, God IS ALWAYS with us! He’s there to guide us and protect us, but we have to let him, listen for/to him, watch for him, and talk to him.
Our lives will be infinitely better while on earth if we take God with us everywhere we go, every day. He is our creator. He loves us. He knows best. He is both our beginning and our end, and everything in between. Let us go be His light in this world!
Questions for Reflection:
- Can you feel God at work within you?
- Do you find it easy to follow God’s lead? Or do you sometimes find yourself grumbling or arguing – not wanting to do it His way?
- Do you see others living out God’s word, shining His light? Does it help motivate you to do the same?
Prayer:
Dear Lord and Savior, creator of all good things, our light and our salvation,
Thank you for never giving up on us, for continuing your work within us and around us. Please help us to listen and hear you when you guide us and answer our prayers. Help us to joyfully be beacons of Your Light in this world. In your name we pray, Amen.
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