“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 2:14-16a
Mine and Tim’s youngest son would often call his siblings out when they would grumble or roll their eyes, or whatever negative action would be evident, when asked or reminded (again and again) to complete a specific task, OR simply have a conversation about their day. Cole would look at us and shrug saying, “teenage attitude”, or he would scold them directly and reminded them, “you’re having a teenage attitude.” (Yes, only to cause more eye rolling.)
Unfortunately, Cole wasn’t too far behind his brother and sister when his own “teenage attitude” would rise to the surface.
Yet, when you read those words in Philippians 2:14-16 your mind may deliberate like mine did, “Teens aren’t the only folks who come to mind, just turn on the television and observe our politicians.” Others may say, “Wait, was Paul writing to my spouse?” Still, some of you may ponder, “Oh no, these verses were meant for me.”
You see, the term “children of God” applies to all of us, at any age or stage of our lives.
The Message translations reads:
“Do everything readily and cheerfully – no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in the squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living and the living of God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I’ll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ return.”
I pray that you will take a moment, evaluate your own attitude and actions, and choose to simply breathe. Breathe in God’s goodness and exhale joy and an uplifting posture that can only come from God. Be the light in this warped and crooked world. Allow others to glimpse the goodness of the living God through you.
What do your actions and attitude say about Whose you are?
I want to encourage you to stand strong and hold firm to the word of life.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
