“Only, live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or am absent and hear about you, I will know that you are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel, and are in no way intimidated by your opponents. For them this is evidence of their destruction, but of your salvation. And this is God’s doing.” Philippians 1:27-28 (NRS)
Without being critical, let us note that post-modern society is more interested in personal preferences, satisfaction, and living without limits than living in a prescribed manner. Yet, Paul’s encouragement to the Philippian believers was about loving Christ so much that one would conduct oneself in a manner which produced the greatest favorable influence to the Kingdom of God. Changed lives send out a beacon to those who are seeking to be changed. Light and life are reflected in those who have received it.
What is the value that we place on Christ and his gospel? Living life in the Kingdom is about loving Christ first and foremost above everything else. When that is true in our lives, we will be committed in spirit and attitude. When we love Christ more than this world, we will pursue unity of the faith. What an effect such living would have on the society around us!
Our lives reflect our values. The challenge for us is to not allow ourselves to be intimidated by the opponents of the Gospel of Christ. In other words, living our lives in such a manner that the opposition takes notice. Yet, not letting the opposition set the standard or deter us from living in a manner we know is right. The sneers of the opposition is a two-fold signal. It gives us evidence that those who would reject Christ are in danger of eternal damnation. And it gives us evidence that we are living right.
Dear Father, thank you for you our Savior and Lord, your son Jesus Christ. Grant that we may truly live our lives in a manner that is worthy of the gospel of Christ. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today as you live a life of value,