DEVOTION – DAY 159

Philippians 2:14-15 “No Grumbling And Arguing”

 

Phil.2:14-15 “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.”

Paul’s advice in Phil.2:14-15 was relevant to the church in Philippi as it is relevant today in our churches. Sadly, people in church sometime grumble or argue causing disunity. Sometimes, the arguments and grumbling become so bad that churches split. Paul wanted everyone to know that church unity was important because God wanted His Church to be like a lighthouse shining forth His light to a world that was darkened by sin. God’s people are to be peace loving, united and contented people who would stand out in a world full of discontented and quarrelsome people. By doing so, they could draw unbelievers to turn to God.

We have come across people who grumble about worship leaders who do not lead worship in a tuneful manner as an example. People have grumbled that some worship leaders are not appropriately attired. And when some worship leaders make the effort to dress well and sing enthusiastically, others may grumble that these worship leaders were too showy. We have also seen people become unhappy over careless remarks made by others and people argue over misunderstandings. When that happens, the work of God is affected. Our answer to such grumblings is to remind people to pray for those they grumble about. Instead of grumbling and arguing, it is more fruitful to pray for the other party, to replace careless words with words of encouragement. This is what blameless and pure children of God would do.

Some members of a church were unhappy with a proposed construction of a new sanctuary. Instead of praying for wisdom for the church leaders to be wise custodians of God’s resources, they tried to garner support to oppose the proposed construction of the new church building. Soon, arguments started between those who supported the project and those who opposed the project. The arguments got so bad that it caused the church’s membership to split. Those that opposed the construction of a new building left the church to set up another church. Their departure caused a sharp fall in church collections forcing the construction of the new building to be abandoned. The arguments had caused this church to be weakened and God was not glorified as a result. Let us follow the Bible’s advice to be blameless and pure.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the wisdom that lies in your Word that warns us to always safeguard unity in your church. Help us to avoid grumbling and arguments and to replace it with prayer and encouragement to build up your church for your glory. In the name of the Lord Jesus we pray. Amen.

 

Questions

  1. What are some areas that people in church grumble about and argue over? Discuss.
  2. What are the underlying causes of such discontent and strife?
  3. What can you do to avoid getting involved in grumbling and arguing with others?
  4. How can you play your part to promote unity within your church?