Pen Pulpit

“A LIFE THAT COUNTS”

Philippians 2:12-16

March 11th, 2001

In this brief passage we see the elements of a life that counts for our Lord Jesus Christ - a quality life!

We need to take responsibility. So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:12-13. The first major lesson a Christian must learn in his growth pattern is how to take responsibility. This involves developing self motivation. We are to live our lives through Christ, not through someone else. Furthermore, believers are to take their Christian life seriously. There is too much “carnival Christianity”.

The believer is to develop a life free from grumbling and complaining.

Do all things without grumbling or disputing (complaining). Phil 2:14.

1. Grumbling and complaining stifles God’s work in your life - v. 13.

2. It paralyzes your ability to respond in cooperation with God - v.12.

3. It mars your witness for the Lord - v. 15.

However, if we develop a life free from grumbling and complaining we are lights in a very dark world. ... that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world.

Philippians 2:15.

We are to be witnesses by holding forth the Word of Life to a world that desperately needs it. .... holding fast the Word of Life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

Philippians 2:16.

The Word of Life is full of meaning. The Word of Life -

• contains life

• imparts life

• sustains life

• explains life.

I pray that He will enable us to look at life and people through His eyes and not our own. God bless.

Love to you all.

--Pastor Charles Covington 1933-2006