Friday, July 30, 2010

Philippians 2

I've started posting more as of last and have been thinking about the things I post. I wanted to evaluate whether my motives were self-seeking or vain. The Spirit of God brought Philippians 2 to my mind. It's a book filled with practical application and so often functions as a mirror to remind me of the condition of my soul. So, I thought I'd share it with you, whoever may happen upon this post. t gently reminded me why I should live in the way that it exemplifies: because of the example Christ set for his followers and the blessings of being united with Him that are poured out on us.

Ahhh, its a refreshing thought. I don't have to wait for someone else to initiate kindness and peace towards me in order to live peaceably with those around me. No, Christ has already initiated peace towards me, and that's more than I'll ever need!


Philippians 2 (New International Version)

Imitating Christ's Humility

"1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

6Who, being in very nature[a] God,

did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,

7but made himself nothing,

taking the very nature[b] of a servant,

being made in human likeness.

8And being found in appearance as a man,

he humbled himself

and became obedient to death—

even death on a cross!

9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place

and gave him the name that is above every name,

10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.



Shining as Stars

12Therefore, 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, 13for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

14Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe 16as you hold out[c] the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. 17But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18So you too should be glad and rejoice with me."

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