February 11, 2024

Flourishing

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
– Philippians 2:12-18

Celebrate

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
– Mark 1:17

It is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
– Philippians 2:13

Take Up Your Cross

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
– Luke 9:23

I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith.
– Philippians 2:17

Abide

“If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.”
– John 15:7-8 NRSV

Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.
– Philippians 2:15b -16

Questions for Further Reflection

1. Which one of these three above ways is God inviting you to grow in during the coming months?

2. In what area of your life (Family, Friends, Work, Community) is God inviting you to grow?

3. Who is the person or people who can help and support you as you grow in this way? Share with them what God has put on your heart and ask for their prayerful support.