“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.” - Philippians 2:14-15
This passage of Scripture contrasts two different types of people. The first type is described as blameless, pure children of God. The second type is crooked and depraved. It is interesting that the generation of people is described as depraved. Therefore, we can infer that the pure and blameless people are not the majority in this society. Christ followers are the exception, not the rule. Yet notice the influence we can have. Paul says that we will “shine like stars” if indeed we “do everything without complaining or arguing.”
Do you think God really means “everything?” That is a tall order. Can you imagine how different your life would be if you never complained or argued…if the believers closest to you never complained or argued? What does not complaining have to do with shining like stars for Christ? More than you may think.
An attitude is like a barometer for the heart. Complaining is evidence of an ungrateful heart. Arguing is evidence of a prideful heart. It is impossible to be pure and without fault if your heart is prideful and ungrateful. There is a cause-and-effect relationship between the two.
Pride, indignation, arrogance, entitlement, ungratefulness, greed…these are so common in the world today. There is no shock or outrage over such attributes. We have become so used to them that our sensitivities are numbed. But gratitude, humility, selflessness, kindness…these will indeed shine like stars in the darkness.
Dear Father, You are so good. If I have You, I truly have nothing to complain about. Please help me to choose daily to be grateful, kind, and loving. I want others to see Your light shining through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Topics: Christian Living
