Philippians 2:14-16

^“14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, ¹⁵ 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. ¹⁶ Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ’s return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless.”

For a moment, just sit back and take a long look at this picture. What do you see? I find such peace and quietness. Don’t miss the greater purpose here. This is not simply a ray of light. My soul is transformed into this place – this very moment – where God’s light breaks the darkness and my eyes are drawn to majesty. For most, our eyes are drawn to the light, and this example does not disappoint.

Breathe it in! The piercing quality of God’s light represented in righteousness and holiness shatters the darkening grip this world assimilates upon society and culture. Let me make it clear – no numerical force can overpower God’s light. A single ray of God’s holiness breaks through the thickest and ugliest of forces. How does this apply to us my dear friends? You and I are not perfect; we are not God. The answer is such sweet resonance. As a believer, God in the presence of the Holy Spirit lives in you and me!

Therefore, our fundamental goal is to live like Jesus Christ! You may never preach or teach…but the world will know who lives in you by observing your actions and listening to your daily speech! Therefore, we are to do everything without complaining or arguing as the Scripture instructs.

Sadly, our culture is chipping away at all things respect and submission. Today, we teach our children that it is right to complain and argue when we don’t get your way. This leads to very unproductive adults attempting to survive in the workforce. I am sure we can all agree that work is not a democracy. We don’t get to “take a vote.” On the contrary, we are given a set of rules, responsibilities, policies, and procedures to follow. We have a choice. We follow these rules without complaining or arguing, which ultimately gives God the glory or we simply do just the opposite leading only to destruction and division.

Jesus made it very clear that we are to live blameless lives. No matter the situation you are in – tough, difficult, unfair, etc., I encourage you to shine like the stars in the universe! Follow the instructions outlined throughout the Word and specifically in this passage – “Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.”

Remember, people may be drawn to darkness because the flesh is weak, but their eyes see light from distances far away! Be the beacon of light that others focus on because you are the only example of Christ that they may ever see!

Thankful,

Christian Armetta