It may be easy to acknowledge our shortcomings, but it can be hard to change them.
We look to our own interests, but we should look to the interests of others also.
The only way to achieve this goal, is to have the desire to let go of the things that are wrong in our lives.
The things that make us selfish and unwilling to give.
We need to build on the emotions that exhibit respect, love and a desire to change our ways.
Our way of living can change when we let go of focusing on ourselves and begin to serve others.
That is why Paul reminded the Philippian church, that they must be diligent in the use of all the means which lead to salvation.
Even though they would face difficulties, they had the ability to, positively, continue a course of action that would result in a better ending.
As children of God, we differ from the sons of men.
Because we are not to be like those that are, showing a deliberate desire to behave in a way that is not pleasing to God.
We know that there is a better way to handle all things.
We are to be more careful. Keeping ourselves blameless and harmless.
This is easily done when we reflect on what God had done and the ways He has made all things better for us.
God has graciously taken us in, comforted us with His love and given His Spirit to help us throughout our lives.
This alone is enough to encourage us to do our utmost.
Knowing that our labor shall not be in vain, we must continue to depend on the grace of God.
Think about a lighthouse.
It warns the vessels on the water where to avoid rocks and directs their course into the harbor.
The Lord is our Lighthouse, directing our courses.
He does not want us to be selfish and uncaring.
He is desiring to shine through each of us.
As we acknowledge His work in us, do His will and act in a way to fulfill His good purpose, we can help direct others to do His will.
To stay on the right course to fulfill the purpose He has for them too.
This will lead to all of us being blessed with a prosperous life.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Father, Thank You for the many ways You have helped us turn from our selfish ways of living.
We know it is Your will that believers should be much in rejoicing. To share all the blessings, we have received. That is what we can do when we follow Your Word. Let us continue to be great ministers of the Word, rejoicing even the more.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen