Devotion

Theme: Shine Above Others
Text:  Philippians 2:12-18

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure 14 Do all things without complaining and disputing,15 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, 16 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.
17 Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me.

To us as believers in Christ Jesus, the mention of light is life to us. For the light of Christ brings life and that light is the life of men (John 1:4). Paul is admonishing the Church in Philippe to work out their salvation in fear and trembling. This does not mean, salvation is by work rather the free gift of God through Christ Jesus. It is for this reason he was quick to add in the thirteenth verse; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. The grace of God works in us to accomplish every given mandate. We can't shine without Christ. He is the source of our light. In John 8:12 Christ proclaim, He is the light of the world and whosoever follows Him, will never walk in darkness. If you walk with Christ, dear beloved, you'll never walk in darkness.

Your light can only shine through the manifestations of your works on this earth be it as; a secretary, teacher, pastor, doctor, nurse, student, social worker, security personnel, driver, conductor, amongst others. You are to discharge your duties without complaining. Some people are quick to proclaim of challenges in every little thing they do. That's laziness and it should and must not be a part of the Christian. As a believer in Christ Jesus, dispute should not be your friend. You can't achieve greatness without the help of others. You need to be wise in working in a crooked world where corruption and all ill vices are seen as normal. Daniel suffered for  standing for the truth in his days,  the Apostles Paul and other Apostles suffered for the Gospel, you ain't the first and the Lord will surely lift you above the troubles of life if you don't give up.

Study and apply the Word of life as you go about your duties. Don't depend on you strength, rely on God. As you carry yourself well, remember the glorious crown that awaits us and don't give up. You'll surely enter into the Kingdom of heaven if you hold on to Christ.

Prayer: We will pray with William Williams hymn as prayer;
Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah. Pilgrim through this barren land. I am weak but Thou art mighty; Hold me with Thy powerful hand. Bread of heaven, Feed me till I want no more.