October 20, 2024

Passage Read: Philippians 1-2
Meditation Verses: 2:14-16

Thought

This is a letter of thanks for a gift sent through one of their number, Epaphroditus, but in it, Paul has some exhortations, including a call for humility and this instruction to do all things without grumbling or disputing, which is actually an expression of humility. These are the Macedonians, whom elsewhere Paul has praised for their generosity in spite of their poverty. These people seem to be such models of Christian life and faith. Yet Paul still includes these commands. Is it because they struggled with these weaknesses, pride and complaining? Or because they were so committed to Christ that to write these things to people who were already so faithful in their behavior, that it would not be taken as an insult but as a safeguard? Someone who struggles with humility and serving without complaining would need to hear these things, but someone who was known for their humility and sacrificial service would receive such instruction in a spirit of humility and be grateful for the reminder. That is the mark of true humility!

Application

Every time I read that command, no matter how well I think I'm doing in these areas, I can always to better, and I should. How quick am I to grumble or dispute when asked to do something I don't like? Maybe not so much. But I can do better. I can always grow in humility and glad submissiveness. I need to continuously guard my heart, that when asked to do some task, I don't grumble or dispute. There are tasks that are beyond my ability, but there are no tasks beneath my ability or status. It may not be wise for me to give my time to them always, but occasionally is no problem.