Gratitude Makes You Shine Like Lights (Philippians

Receiving God’s gift of salvation and “working it out” in our lives includes eliminating grumbling and disputing. When we are committed to being obedient children of God, who obey with joy and unity, we stand out like stars shining in the night sky. If we recognize that this generation is just as “crooked and twisted” as it was in the first century, then we must commit ourselves to joyful obedience. Few things will cause the church to stand out as much as a grateful life.
SPEAKER:
Wes McAdams, Preaching Minister (www.ccmcdermot...)
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PRIMARY TEXT FOR THIS MESSAGE:
12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but 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 work for his good pleasure.
14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 17 Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.
(Philippians 2:12-18, ESV)
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The following summary and the subtitles for this video were auto-generated and may contain errors or inaccuracies. Please refer to the video for the most accurate representation.
Main Theme/Big Idea:
Gratitude is not just about saying “thank you” but about living with an attitude of joy and service. Inspired by Christ’s humility, Paul calls us to consider others more significant than ourselves and to serve with joy and thanksgiving. This sermon challenges us to view acts of love and service not as obligations but as privileges, reflecting Christ’s sacrificial love.
Key Points:
Gratitude as a Mindset:
Gratitude shapes how we view our relationships and responsibilities. Paul encourages us to live with humility, treating others’ burdens as our own and serving with joy rather than grumbling. This attitude mirrors the mind of Christ, who selflessly served humanity.
The Example of Christ:
Jesus did not cling to His position or privilege but emptied Himself to serve others, even to the point of death on the cross. Paul uses this example to show us that true greatness comes from selflessness and humility.
You Don’t Have to, You Get To:
Our acts of service are not burdensome obligations but opportunities to reflect Christ’s love. Whether helping others, bearing burdens, or sharing in joy, we should see these moments as privileges to shine as lights in the world.
Application:
Approach every responsibility and relationship with the mindset of gratitude, reframing “I have to” as “I get to.”
Follow Christ’s example by serving others selflessly, putting their needs and burdens above your own.
Shine as lights in a dark world by living with joy and humility, showing the transformative power of the gospel in your daily actions.
Memorable Quote:
"You don’t have to follow Jesus. You get to. You don’t have to bear one another’s burdens. You get to. Every act of service is an opportunity to reflect the love of Christ."
Closing Thought/Call to Action:
Paul’s challenge to the Philippians invites us to live out our gratitude by imitating Christ’s humility and selflessness. This week’s challenge is to change every “I have to” into “I get to,” recognizing the joy and privilege of serving others. We are called to shine as lights in the world, demonstrating the joy and gratitude of those who belong to Christ.