Do everything without complaining or arguing, 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 as you hold out the word of life – in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. – (Philippians 2:14-16)
Paul was encouraging the church in Philippi to uphold a higher standard. He knew that if people could see a difference among the believers in how they lived, those who did not yet know Christ, would be more apt to hear and receive the words of life that they were openly offering.
I imagine we each can picture a person who willingly serves behind the scenes, that never has a complaint nor argument, and somehow has a bit of a glow about them. The Spirit dwelling within them, is evident, and people want to be near. May we each become more and more like Him, as His blameless and pure children – without complaining nor arguing, so that we may shine brightly, offering forth His words of life.
Let not a complaint,
leave these lips of mine;
nor arguing be,
a way to pass time.
Make me more like You,
one blameless and pure;
Your child without fault,
whose hope is secure.
Keep me from crooked,
depraved sorts of things;
allow me to shine,
Your word of life bring.
When my days are done,
I so long to hear;
“Well done, faithful child,”
“Come close and draw near.”
With arms extended,
reaching to embrace;
I’ll run to You, Lord,
as I see Your face.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that our hope is found in You alone. Thank You that You give us instructions as to how we are to be effective for You. Forgive us for our complaining and arguing, and help us to set aside our wicked and warring ways, and fix our eyes entirely on You. Help us to become Your blameless and pure children, without fault, so that we may be a mighty witness of Your word. Let Your light shine brightly through us, as we seek to serve You in all that we say and do. May many come to know You as their Lord and Savior. Be exalted as we are made blameless by the glorious gifts of Your mercy and grace. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.
Show me Your ways, O Lord, teach me Your paths; …my hope is in You all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5
Revelations In Writing 