As we noted yesterday, it has often been said, “It is the squeaky wheel that gets the grease.” Sometimes children will do just about anything to get the attention of their parents, even if it is negative attention. As children of God are we growing up in our faith so that instead of being whiners and complainers we are pressing on under His gracious guidance? What does our life declare regarding our faith in God? Are we noted for whining or shining?
Paul urged those at Philippi to . . .
“(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.” (Philippians 2:14-16 ESV)
As Paul wrote these words, his mind may have gone back to the history of Israel’s wandering in the wilderness. Though the expression “crooked and twisted generation” described the world at the time of Paul’s writing and is unfortunately a right description of our world today, it was also the description found in the song of Moses. (Deuteronomy 32:5) That generation under Moses’ leadership was filled with grumblers and complainers. Such character would seem to have been a declaration to the nations around them that they did not believe their God was able to take care of them and fulfill His promises. What does our life say?
Is our life marked by a shining faith in God’s ability to sustain and ultimately bring about the promises He has made? Instead of grumbling and complaining are we seen to possess an unwavering trust in His Sovereignty and power? As Christians, our life should reflect Christ and the joyful peace that is ours from living life in the hands of God. Living life in a manner revealing we know God can get us from where we are to where He ultimately wants us will cause us to shine in an attractive manner to which others may be drawn to find the Divine source of such a life perspective. May our life be marked by a shining that reveals we know unquestionably how much we are blessed through living life connected to God and His Will.
Have a great day EXHIBITING AN UNTARNISHED FAITH!
Carl
