Join us as we read the scriptures and a daily devotion written by Don Crisp. We pray these messages will bless us all at this time.
Day 9 – Philippians 2:12-16
Categories: Don’s Daily Devotions
Wed 20th May Read Philippians 2:12-16:
V12: This great example, given to rebuke their wrong attitudes to others, now becomes the ground for a new appeal, to live as obedient followers of Christ. He saw them do this when he was with them, now let them do it in his enforced absence. In this, they will ” work out their own salvation” – NOT work for their salvation, it is all of grace ( Ephesians 2 v 8-9) but display it to others by the way they live, and do it ” with fear and trembling.” – humbly before God, in reverent awareness of Him and His grace.
V13: For it is all God’s gracious work in them – and in us, as believers. Note this precious NT balance – He works in us, we work out His will in obedience and faith, by the grace He gives, and the work of the Spirit in us.
V14: What does this mean in practice? Don’t grumble or argue with others about anything! This means willing submission to
God’s will in everything, How often we do grumble, argue etc – let these verses, which still go back to Christ’s example ( the “therefore” of v12.) speak to our hearts.
V15: So their lives – and ours – will bear witness that they/we are God’s children – blameless and innocent before Him, not by anything in ourselves, but through His mercy and grace, and the cleansing we have in Christ’s precious blood. ( Remember 1 John 1:7-9.) As obedient children, we witness to the truth before a disobedient and ungodly world ( not just that generation – every generation, not least our own!) As Christians we are to shine as lights in this darkness ( so, Matthew 5:14-16.) – Always remembering, it is Christ who is the true light ( John 8:12.) and we reflect His light – we have none of our own!
V16: By obedient discipleship, they/ we remain true to His Word, keeping it both in profession and practice. If this is shown in their lives, his spiritual children, he will rejoice in them, not only now but when Christ comes again and all His people are glorified with Him. So, they are the fruit of his ministry, to the glory of God. ( The word translated ” proud” here really means they will be a source of joy to him.)