Our scripture this morning is Philippians 2:13-15 (NLT).
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.
Paul writes to the church at Philippi, encouraging them (and us) to “do everything without complaining and arguing.” Complaining and arguing seem very prevalent in our world today, and it is up to us as the children of God not to be part of this, but to shine the light of God’s love on everyone. He reminds us “God is working in you, giving you the desire and power to do what pleases Him.”
In another letter, Paul expresses it like this: “God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us” (1 Corinthians 12:6). We must remember our connection to Him and each other, and see that while others may be doing it differently, we are all part of His kingdom work.
We are all gifted by God to do our part. Later in this letter Paul says “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). God is present in our lives, standing with us in an often dark world. When we put our trust in Him, He will work through us.
Loving Lord, we are sorry for the times we forget our gifts and the work goes undone. Bless us to be obedient and energetic workers for You, sharing Your love with the world. Amen.
