What Ever Happens

DEVOTION

PHILIPPIANS

WHAT EVER HAPPENS

Phil 1:27-30

27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved — and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
NIV

Does it matter what circumstances come into my life? Whatever happens sure seems to cover it all. No matter what happens to me or to someone who I care about a great deal these words exhort me to continue to conduct myself in such a manner in which I bring honor to the gospel of Christ. This certainly bears some effort on my part as far as exhibiting faith in Christ. Now, does this comply with the sovereignty of God? Understanding He has a plan and He is the one who started the good work in me certainly is a start. But it is also how I react to situations in life that show the world my faith. How I conduct myself does reflect what my faith is made of. I remember the day my son, who never lived a day in this life, here in the open air of this world, was buried at the foot of my father’s grave. The world was watching. Did I weep, maybe for me, but not for my son? How could I deny God my son, when he offered His Son for me? Faith means believing, whatever happens. Lord, continue to help me face whatever happens without fear but with faith.