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Philippians 2:14-18 teaches us several truths that are vital to the Christian life. We are told to do all things without grumbling and disputing, while living a life that is blameless, innocent and without blemish. Doing so will produce a testimony that will be a light to the world. Paul emphasizes also to treasure the Word of God and share it with others. Ultimately doing all of these things is pleasing to God and will lead to gladness and rejoicing among believers.

Philippians 2:12-13 is a very important text relating to Christian sanctification. This text does not indicate that salvation can be earned or worked for, but that God expects those who have been saved through faith alone, to live out that salvation through obedience to Christ and his word. Our joyful, faith-filled obedience is motivated by Christ’s example of obedience, and the knowledge that God is working in us to supply the desire to obey, and the power to carry it out. The Christian is responsible for obedience, yet it is God who empowers it. Therefore, let us earnestly seek God as we work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Phil 2:12). We can have full confidence that he who began a good work in us will bring it to completion (Phil 1:6).

In Philippians 1 the Apostle Paul explains how he defines life - “to live is Christ” (Phil. 1:21). What this teaches us is that if you have a proper definition of life, you’ll be able to face anything in life - even death. But, if you don’t have a proper definition of life, you won’t - your life will collapse. This text calls you to convert your purpose and meaning in life to something greater, something better, something that can endure the worst — even death — and still not be taken from you. “To live is Christ, to die is gain.”

None of us know the twists and turns that await us in this new year. Something you can know is that whatever twists and turns are ahead, if you are in Christ, you have a Good Shepherd. In John 10 we learn that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He loves us, he goes before us, and he leads us with his word toward a wonderful and glorious eternal future.