No Complaints Allowed
Today’s scripture selection: Philippians 1-2
Key verses: Philippians 2:14-15
The apostle Paul was gifted at balancing deep theologically profound teaching with down-to-earth practical counsel.
A good example is his writing to the believers in Philippi.
Smack dab in the middle of eloquent preaching about Christ’s humble life of servanthood and his sacrificial death on the cross for all…
Paul puts in this little gem:
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing….”
Ouch.
It’s one thing to wax eloquently about the crucifixion of Jesus – it’s quite another to hit me square between the eyes with a signpost reading “no complaints allowed.”
They are two entirely different things – right?
Or are they?
Maybe, just maybe, at the heart of who God is – and who Christ is – and what Christianity is all about – is the simple, profound, true fact that we are called to be joyful in life, even in times of hardship and sacrifice.
Maybe what “servant leadership” is all about is just getting the job done – getting our “kingdom work” done – free of complaint or a self-serving attitude.
Maybe the only way we can really understand who God is – and who God wants us to be – is to get on with life – “no complaints allowed.”
Sure, I am like most people.
I get frustrated; I get tired; I can grump with the best of them.
But at my best – at my kingdom best – I know living life as God calls me to live it isn’t just my duty – it’s my privilege.
How about you?
Prayer: Lord, when my smile turns into a frown, and I feel most like complaining or arguing – touch me with your spirit and your grace – so that I don’t. AMEN.
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