Living in the Spirit
September 21, 2017

Scripture Reading: Philippians 1:21-30

For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which I prefer. I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith, so that I may share abundantly in your boasting in Christ Jesus when I come to you again. –Philippians 1:21-26

Christ calls us to disciplined, purposeful, and productive action. We need never be busy just for the sake of being busy to win favor with God. Brownie points are unnecessary; grace takes care of that. Using our time wisely toward the realization of God’s Kingdom is our thanksgiving for God’s love and our way of telling others of its wonder.

I have about equal doses of Mary and Martha* in my persona. One does not grow up on a farm without learning how to work. Yet, I have no problem at all reading a good book, listening to music, or sitting around talking with friends about faith or whatever. God mysteriously uses us at times always with purpose. We need to be open to those opportunities and not shy away from them even when they may seem out of our comfort zone at the time.

Prayer: Lord, grant us the full measure of your leadership to use our time wisely for our development and our service to others. Amen.

*See the story of Mary and Martha’s dialogue with Jesus at Luke 10:38-42.

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.