Posted in Bible Related

I read this really neat couple of verses in my Bible this morning. Now, I have read them before. But the thing I noticed about them today was that one was right after the other. I actually realized, for the first time, that they went together. I have heard both of these verses before. I even have one memorized. But I never knew that one was because of the other.

Are you wondering what these two great verses are? Well... I'll tell you. They are Philippians 2:14-15, which say: Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

Don't you see? God didn't just tell us to "do all things without murmurings and disputings." He told us why. And, as with all his rules, this one is here for a good reason. He tells us why in the next verse! It's so that we'll "shine as lights" "in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation"!

People do notice the way you live. They notice the way you dress. They notice the way you treat your parents and your siblings. Your neighbors probably notice if you go to church every Sunday. The librarians at our libraries recognize us. Our mailman likes us because we're "nice" kids, "not like the other kids in this neighborhood," LOL! Probably more people recognize us in this town than we even realize! We might be watched every time we go out in public (now that is kind of scary!).

If you're grumbling and complaining about everything you're asked to do, you're not going to be shining very well! But if you're doing what that verse says, you will shine for Jesus!!

I would love to be always doing "all things without murmurings and disputings," but I'm not perfect. I fail often. But isn't it a great feeling to obey right away, to be kind and gentle with your little siblings, and to always have a smile on your face? Do it for your Saviour!