2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Isaiah 60:1-62:5 ESV, Philippians 1:27-2:18 ESV, Psalm 72:1-20 ESV, Proverbs 24:11-12 ESV
Daily Verse: “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel,” (Philippians 1:27 ESV)
AXIOS (516): “This word means “worthily” and is translated “worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Phil 1:27 of a manner of life in accordance with what the gospel declares).[1]
Life in accordance.
Paul’s letter to the Philippians requests the church to live their lives according to what the Gospel declares. Jesus tells us all the commandments boil down to loving God and loving people. When we do what God says, we live in accordance with the Gospel, and God’s kingdom grows.
People use the term “kingdom work,” which means helping build God’s kingdom. In other words, introducing people to Jesus so they can share in the gift He offers, eternal life. And in the words of C.S. Lewis, “The present is where time touches eternity.”
No better time.
Eternal life happens in the present moment. Following Jesus does more than ensure your entry to heaven, you gain His peace now. God has an answer no matter what circumstances you find yourself in today. He will guide and direct you through the storm while calming your anxieties.
Living life to the fullest means experiencing the joy of the Lord. Gratitude leads the way to finding peace that surpasses all understanding. As the storm rages, God calms. Kingdom work happens inside us first, then overflows to the world around us.
As you become more connected to the Creator, your heart’s desire changes. Unconditional love from above begins to overflow from you, helping you love others. God’s work from within helps you see people through His eyes instead of yours.
Submit to Jesus, and accept His gift of peace that surpasses all understanding as you live your life in accord with the Gospel. Love God, love others, growing God’s kingdom as you do.
[1] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p. 31) Thomas Nelson
[1]https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/93898-destines-them-to-eternity-he-therefore-i-believe-wants-them#:~:text=For%20the%20Present%20is%20the,and%20actuality%20are%20offered%20them.
