1 Kings 12; 2 Chron 10-11; Phil 2

Scripture - Phil 2:12-16 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. 14 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

Observation - This is one of my favorite scriptures of all time...The idea of continuing to work on your salvation and become what God needs me to be for His good pleasure. The idea that everything I hope to do and want to do is for God because it in some way blesses Him completely wins my heart. God is my father - like the scripture says "Abba Father" or daddy. Further - I love the idea of doing all things without arguing or complaining. Too often we do it but we grumble all the way. We need to be blameless and harmless for this generation. We must perform without the moaning and groaning. God is waiting for us to become the testimony He has called us to be.

Application - I must take the advice of the scripture here. For too long I have been in this place wondering what am I doing and why am I here. But God is rightly saying "You are here for my good pleasure". That should be and is plenty of reason. Now I need to work out the salvation portion and continue to be a blessing to God.

Prayer - Father you know what I am talking about. You know how I think. God I love you so much and want my life to be used for your good pleasure. Whatever that takes - God I am willing.