Scripture
“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 as you hold firmly to the word of life.” (Philippians 2:14-16)
Observation
Paul reminds and encourages the Philippians about the human nature to grumble and become argumentative. Why? So that they would be shining lights in a society and community that was opposed to the ways of the Lord. He was spot-on in calling them to know and hold on to God’s word.
Application
In these current times, given the pandemic and the way that the world is seemingly slipping into worldly values and ways; more than ever, it is crucial that we not let our fleshly ways of complaining, grumbling, and arguing rise up to display the often ugliness within. However, it is God’s word in our heart that refines our heart to process through the tough times that will come, and choose to give grace rather than wrath in our words and actions. Our witness will then be a shining light for the Lord rather than a cloud of darkness. We can have a heart of sweet words or sour words. One can bring peace and love, the other will bring turmoil and conflict.
Prayer
Dear Lord, it is so easy to get caught up in negative words stemming from a heart that has been hurt or disappointment. Lord, knowing that those times will come, I pray that the Holy Spirit would convict me of those times where I am slipping into negativity and a grumbling heart; but instead choose to be guided by the Holy Spirit to empower me with the grace of God, and instead extend insightful, soothing, and encouraging words to others.
