Lights in the World

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Scripture: Philippians 2:12-16

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

 

Meditation:

            Today’s scripture calls us to obedience to God first. By obeying God’s commands we open ourselves to God’s work of love within us. A work of love that ultimately leads to our salvation. Some may be surprised to see that we are to work out our own salvation since all those who have faith in Jesus are saved according to the scripture elsewhere. But we must remember salvation is far more than insurance against going to hell. Our salvation is to be shared with others through good works or it is really no salvation at all.

            The next phrase really speaks to me. I am a grumbler if there ever was one. But it is good for me to know that by doing the work that Christ has given me to do my light will shine as I hold out the word of life (the scriptures) so that this crooked and perverse generation can see what a life lived totally sold out to God looks like.

            Let us all be filled with the joy and love of Jesus today. So that those around us can see that the godly life is not always full of heart break and tears, but also full of joy and smiles. Let’s welcome those whom the world shuns so that all may know what this God truly looks like.

 

Prayer:

Holy God, restore to us the joy of your salvation. May we bear that joy as we walk in a world that is dimmed by sin and the sorrow it causes. Help us to welcome the last, the least, and the lost into our midst. So that we can show them a home full of light and life in Jesus Christ. Amen

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