Have you taken a moment lately to look at the beauty and glory of the stars shining in the night sky? I often enjoying looking up into the night sky and find inspiration looking into the stars shing bright against the expanse of the night sky. The Apostle Paul challenges us to shine like stars in the night if we continue to grow in faith, share a positive attitude and a positive message, and live lives of service and sacrifice as followers of Christ. The Apostle Paul reminds us that it takes some work and effort as we allow God’s Spirit to continue the work of transformation in our lives. He paints a picture of what it means to live out our faith: it’s both God’s work in us and our active participation. Salvation is God’s gift, but discipleship is our daily response. To “work out” our salvation means to live it out—to allow God’s transforming power to shape our thoughts, actions, and attitudes in everyday life. This of course is very different than “working for” our salvation as that is from the grace of our Lord. Paul offers this practical challenge:
(scripture of the week)
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.” (Philippians 2:12–15, cf. 16-18)
In a world often marked by negativity and self-focus, our humble obedience and joyful spirit make us shine. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every choice to serve rather than complain becomes a reflection of Christ’s light in a dark world. Paul reminds the Philippians—and us—that our lives are to be a living testimony. As we hold firmly to God’s Word of life, we bring joy to others and honor to God. Even in suffering or sacrifice, Paul rejoiced, because his life was poured out in service to Christ.
So today, let’s ask ourselves: Are we shining His light or blending in with the darkness? Are we living in such a way that others see Christ through our joy, humility, service and integrity?
When we live with gratitude and serve with love, God uses our ordinary days to reflect His extraordinary glory.
PrayerLord, help me live out my faith with joy and humility. Let my words and actions reflect your light in a dark world. May I shine brightly for You, holding fast to Your Word and serving others with love. Amen.
Wishing you a blessed week—Pastor TJ
(quote of the week)
Salt and light live and work by sacrificing themselves not by trying to preserve themselves-- Helmut Thielicke
Listen to recent sermons by Dr. TJ Jenney YouTube & YouTube
Podcast on Spotify: Inspire Messages
http://inspiresundaymessages.blogspot.com
(scripture of the week)
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.” (Philippians 2:12–15, cf. 16-18)
In a world often marked by negativity and self-focus, our humble obedience and joyful spirit make us shine. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every choice to serve rather than complain becomes a reflection of Christ’s light in a dark world. Paul reminds the Philippians—and us—that our lives are to be a living testimony. As we hold firmly to God’s Word of life, we bring joy to others and honor to God. Even in suffering or sacrifice, Paul rejoiced, because his life was poured out in service to Christ.
So today, let’s ask ourselves: Are we shining His light or blending in with the darkness? Are we living in such a way that others see Christ through our joy, humility, service and integrity?
When we live with gratitude and serve with love, God uses our ordinary days to reflect His extraordinary glory.
PrayerLord, help me live out my faith with joy and humility. Let my words and actions reflect your light in a dark world. May I shine brightly for You, holding fast to Your Word and serving others with love. Amen.
Wishing you a blessed week—Pastor TJ
(quote of the week)
Salt and light live and work by sacrificing themselves not by trying to preserve themselves-- Helmut Thielicke
Listen to recent sermons by Dr. TJ Jenney YouTube & YouTube
Podcast on Spotify: Inspire Messages
http://inspiresundaymessages.blogspot.com
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