This week in Phillipians, we discussed the importance of eliminating complaining. As a more Christlike alternative, we should instead choose to trust Him in the face of disappointment. Not to mention, disappointment usually comes from our own self-sought expectations.
Phillipians 2:12-18 (NIV)
Shining as Stars
12 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, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
14 Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe 16 as you hold out[a] the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. 17 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. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
If we attempt to become blameless and pure children of God, we'll "shine like the stars in the universe", offering a reflective life of who Christ was and is. This, in turn, will bring hope to the despair.
It's funny how many times in conversation I will bring up something negative. I have no idea where it comes from or why I do it. Negativity feeds on negativity. I can't imagine how much more beneficial it would be to replace every negative thought or word with something encouraging instead!
1 comment:
Allowing the Spirit to transform you from the inside out involves trusting Him to do the work. By renewing our mind, we become more like the One we think about. Christ's work on the cross is sufficient when we abide in Him and He abides in us.
T- total
R- reliance
U- upon
S- salvation's
T- Truth(God's Word is truth and Jesus is truth)
Love You!
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