PHILIPPIANS 2:14-16
“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
”Philippians 2:14-16 NKJV
https://bible.com/bible/114/php.2.14-16.NKJ
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We believers need not only to live Godly lives, but must be seen as living Godly lives; living as children of God, joyful and at peace, showing ourselves as different, and shining like bright lights; showing genuine loving care towards others without seeking anything in return.
It is this selfless loving attitude that goes against our human nature and draws non-believers to Christ.
It shows them just how happy and joyful we really are in Christ, and how God’s kindness, gentle caring supportive attitude radiates from us, displaying God's love to all.
It is His love that will make non-believers inquisitive and hungry for God's truth. It is this caring attitude that is revealed by what you say and do, even when going through your own trials and challenges.
If you really trust God, these trials should not be able to still your peace or send you into a frenzy of negative words. But if they do, remind yourself that God causes all things to work together for those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them (ROMANS 8:28).
Therefore, do everything as if working for the Lord and the privilege of doing just that; knowing that God is in total control, not some of the time, but all of the time.
My brethren, take control of your tongues and do everything without arguing and complaining; do you think your moaning and groaning will be encouraging for others?
Do you realise your moans and groans are word spoken curses over yourself and others? They open doors and allow the devil in because your winging brings you into agreement with the the devil. He will take your words and bring them to pass.
Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.”
James 3:5-10 NKJV
My beloved, we cannot tame our tongues in our own strength; just like every other sin, we cannot do this ourselves.
Yet through prayer and fasting, God will empower you, strengthen you , and give you the patience and wisdom to control what comes out of your mouth.
This small member can make grand speeches, encourage and teach great things, bringing glory to God, but equally it can set ablaze the course of nature. It is a whole world of wickedness, and will corrupt your entire body (and the body of Christ (the church) if you allow it.
Indeed, it can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself (JAMES 3:5-6).
My brethren, don't allow your tongue to corrupt you, nor bring division or curses, nor steal your peace or your freedoms, your peace, nor your place in heaven; make sure that everything that comes from your mouth brings glory to God.
Rather than moaning and complaining about what you don’t have, focus on what you do have and everything God has done.
Put your trust in Jesus and give thanks to God for all you have.
Count your blessings-a million little miracles you probably haven’t even noticed or given God the credit for.
Therefore, contemplate all you have, what He has done and what He is doing, and be grateful.
My beloved, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:4-7 NKJV
Furthermore as God’s peace has its way in your life, you shall shine brightly for God and the church will grow in numbers and strength, glorifying our Father in heaven.
But whatever you do, do not run your race in vain.
All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.