In Philippians 1:1-11 we learned about Jesus and His attitude of humility, obedience, and service. He is our example. Paul has encouraged the Philippians to follow his instructions about unity and about following Christ. Here he tells them to work hard to show the results of their salvation, "obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him." vv 12-13 This advice goes for us as well. God has saved us through Jesus, but He has not left us alone; He is working in us even now! God Himself gives us the desire and the power to do what pleases Him. We should never resist God as He works within us.
As we go on to v. 14 and following, we are still thinking about Christ's example and our job of having the same attitude He had. Here are some instructions about how to follow His example:
- Do everything without complaining and arguing. (Oh boy!)
- Live clean, innocent lives as children of God.
- Shine like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.
- Hold firmly to the word of life.
Psalm 84
Asaph the psalmist longed to worship and fellowship with God inside His Temple. As New Testament believers we can meet God anywhere and at any time. In addition, God has provided us with a community of believers within the church. They can be a source of strength and comfort as we worship God together. We find joy when we sing His praises, v. 4, and when we realize that our strength comes from the Lord, v. 5.
A single day in God's presence is better than a thousand anywhere else! v. 10
"For the Lord God is our sun and our shield." v. 11 He lights our way and protects us. "He gives us grace and glory." v. 11
"The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right." v. 11 Remember that God alone knows what is good for us, and He will not withhold His good from us.
"O Lord of Heaven's Armies, what joy for those who trust in you." v. 12 May we daily trust in the Lord of Heaven's Armies!
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