Philippians Chapter 3: Verses 15-17 (NIV)
All of us then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.
Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
How Paul has changed. We can see this in these verses. No longer the zealous hot-head so desperate to persecute believers, he recognises that people will not always agree. Whilst it is right to take a stand on things that are scriptural, right and just, we may come across people who will disagree with us. Paul says that those who are mature will leave the matter to God and continue to live in the manner that they know God has called them to. It’s tempting to always get our point in and to have the last word, but we don’t want to lose our testimony by getting into an argument that won’t achieve anything. We need to be wise and discerning as mature Christians to know when the Holy Spirit wants us to turn the other cheek and walk away.
This is important because we may be seen by those who are younger in the faith as role models. Paul tells the Philippian Church to follow his example and others who are likeminded and living for God. I am realising as I get older just how much people watch how we conduct ourselves, and how important our ambassadorial role for Christ actually is. That’s why scoring points in an argument just to prove we are right is not something Paul advocated. Sometimes we may just have to bite our lip and leave the rest up to the Lord!
Dear Lord,
I am grateful that You show grace to me and draw my attention to things You want me to change at the right time and not all at once. I ask for the ability to extend the same grace and discretion when I am speaking to someone who disagrees with my view. May I always remember who I am serving and conduct myself in a Christ-like manner. I ask in Jesus Name. Amen.