Scripture
14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. 16 Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ's return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. 17 But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God,* just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. 18 Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.
19 If the Lord Jesus is willing, I hope to send Timothy to you soon for a visit.
25 Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you.
Observations
- Everything means everything
- No complaining and no arguing
- Results, no criticism and clean children of God, shining bright!
- Lights shine brightest in dark places
- The Word will guide and provide
- Paul had a burden for people to live with the right perspective
Applications
- Complaints are not a part of my commission today
- I can only shine in dark places
- Get in the Word and hold on
- Pray for people's perspective
Prayer
Jesus, I must die to live this life! You have to be in me and Lord of me to shine through me. I ask that you reveal to me the handles (Word) I need to hold onto to shine the brightest.
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