Repeated Words

Philippians 1:27-30

Paul goes over the same concepts again and again, in much the same way we tell our children things many times. Perhaps, having experienced what it is like to remind somone of something numerous times, we will be more willing to listen to God's repeated words to us. We will face opposition of various kinds in our areas of influence and ministry. Our children or their friends may show us disrespect; other parents may caution us against speaking about God, telling us what we can and cannot say. Often society as a whole seems to hinder us from parenting God's way. We see unfairness, injustice, and things that are not right, and may find it difficult to explain these things to our children.

Yet Paul says no matter what happens, conduct yourselves as Jesus would. As we strive to work together in a spirit of peace and harmony, others will hear of our love. They will realize we preach the gospel (good news of God's love) by our actions, even when "eating dirt." Even if there is only one other Christian in your neighborhood, stand together as one in the faith and find strength.