Consistent Living
by Suzanne Benner
Also available as a podcast at: http://thelife.com/blogs/experience/kindle/2008/06/25/consistent-living-3/
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“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3
“Do everything without complaining or arguing” Philippians 2:14
Do nothing. Do everything.
Paul is talking about our attitudes and our motives, as well as our actions. With all inclusive language, he calls us to consistent living.
As believers in Jesus, our attitudes and actions should not depend on the situation. We are not called to be kind in some circumstances and harsh in others. We are not urged to be humble with one group of people and proud with another.
There is an underlying principle that governs our behavior. It is found in the same chapter of Philippians and throughout the New Testament. “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5)
In another place Paul says, “Follow my example, as I follow that example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)
Our attitudes are to be the attitudes of Jesus. Our actions are to be the actions of Jesus.
Thus, with Jesus as our guide, we are called to live our lives thoughtfully and consistently.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Test your motives. Are you helping someone because it will make you look good? Is your desire for money, fame or power the guiding factor in your decision making?
Do everything without complaining or arguing. Test your actions. Did you do the job assigned, but complain about how you always get the dirty work? Did you argue with your spouse about who should do the chores, how you use money, what to do with your leisure time?
Do nothing. Do everything.
In our own strength it is impossible to live consistently, but by the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us we can begin live as Jesus did.
Questions: When is it most challenging for you to do everything without complaining or arguing? How do we keep from being overwhelmed by the call to consistent living?
About this Author: http://thelife.com/experience/devotionalformen/authors/suzanne-benner/
