TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. Philippians 2:15c-16a
Listen: Philippians 2
TODAY’S MESSAGE
The light of the Philippian church is growing dim. In-fighting, persecution and false teaching is pulling their focus away from the gospel. Paul urgently compels them to relight their faith and purpose.
Throughout history, the church has been a light to those in need of mercy, care and love. Last weekend guest speaker John Dickson shared polling numbers now show Christianity no longer shines in many parts of the world. Four out of ten people say they think Christianity is damaging the world.
Christ’s death for us and his resurrection is a beautiful song of truth. Sometimes his followers play the music beautifully and sometimes very terribly. For our light to shine, we need to focus on the truth and ask Jesus to help us play his song beautifully. This week, we’ll see how Paul challenges the Philippians (and us) to raise the bar in the four areas of motivation, power, character and impact.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Think of an area of your life where your light is dim and you would like to shine more in showing mercy, care and love. This might be at work, school, church, neighborhood or even in your own home. Turn to page 30 in your Philippians: Choosing Joy Under Pressure journal. Write a prayer asking God for his guidance to help you shine.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
