“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 laboured in vain.” Philippians 2:12-16 NKJV
Awesome God,
The “therefore” comes after You reminded us that we should have the mind of Christ, (Philippians 2:5). The Christ who though equal to You, God, humbled Himself and died for us. But who is now highly exalted and one day every knee will bow before Him. We should have His way of thinking and therefore . . .
Do all things without complaining and disputing. It seems to me You keep reminding me recently of this and so I must need it! Why? Because You say here it is an attitude that can change me and stop me being blameless and harmless. We do still live in a crooked and perverse generation and that is what makes it hard sometimes. But that is no excuse with You.
Last night I noticed a really bright star near the moon and it did not twinkle, and I looked it up. It is not a star it is the planet Venus! It would be good lord to shine as a light in the world for You and not twinkle but consistently shine. Help us to hold fast to Your Wonderful Word and do that.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Awesome God,
It is not always possible to be at peace with everyone. Some people we know complain and are negative or just at odds. Help us to know what to say and when to keep silent. We pray for our family and friends some of whom are in pain or are going through trouble and need to share their challenges. Help us to know that sharing a complaint for prayer, explaining a situation, is not the same as moaning.
We pray for the many different circumstances those we know and care about are going through, and pray, You will be their light and guide and comfort.
We pray for Russia and a miraculous change in their attitude to Ukraine and for an end to war. Continue to provide Libya and Morocco with help and Your presence, even amidst those who would not know You ordinarily.
Grant us strength for today, the ability to smile at simple joys and a good nights sleep to come.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Thursday 21st Sept 2023
Jesus is Lord! Creation’s voice proclaims it,
for by his power each tree and flower was planned and made.
Jesus is Lord! The universe declares it –
sun, moon and stars in heaven cry: `Jesus is Lord!’
Jesus is Lord, Jesus is Lord!
Praise him with alleluias, for Jesus is Lord.
Jesus is Lord! Yet from his throne eternal
in flesh he came to die in pain on Calvary’s tree.
Jesus is Lord! From him all life proceeding –
yet gave his life a ransom thus setting us free.
Jesus is Lord! O’er sin the mighty conqueror;
from death he rose and all his foes shall own his name.
Jesus is Lord! God sends his Holy Spirit
to show by works of power that Jesus is Lord.
Lyrics: David John Mansell