Persevere
Day 633, Wednesday, May 6
Philippians 2:12 – 3:14
Two of the greatest enemies of the Christian life are familiarity and boredom. Many people can do great things when the adrenaline is pumping. It’s harder to continue over the long haul.
Paul challenges the Philippians—and us—to persevere in their faith, just as he does. “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
In 2:12-13, he both compliments them on their perseverance and urges them to continue. “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
Paul also tells the Philippians to “Do everything without grumbling or arguing.” Grumbling and arguing tend to creep in when energy flags and the novelty of something new wears off. We sometimes refer to the “honeymoon” phase of relationships beyond the literal meaning in marriage: we often use it in reference to a new president or other leader or a new job. It is as the new wears off that we start to grumble and become less patient.
It’s a temptation that appears in the Christian life as much as anywhere else. The solution, Paul says, is to keep our eyes on the goal.

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Wednesday meditation

Psalms 119:57-64
You are my portion, Lord; I have promised to obey your words. I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes. I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands. Though the wicked bind me with ropes, I will not forget your law. At midnight I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws. I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts. The earth is filled with your love, Lord; teach me your decrees.

Prayer focus
Protect us, Lord, from complacency and fatigue that can turn our eyes away from you.