Philippians 4:2-7 ---- Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit. --Philippians 2:3 -- --- I watched from my balcony as a 20-story apartment building was demolished. The demolition took barely a week to complete. In its place a new building is being constructed. It's been months now, and despite construction activities going on nights and weekends, it is still incomplete. How much easier it is to tear down than to build up!
What is true for demolition and contruction of buildings is also also true for personal relationships. In Philippians 4:2, Paul wrote to two women in the church, saying, "I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord." The quarrel between these two women threatened to tear down the witness of the Philippian church if left unresolved. So Paul urged a "true companion" (v.3) to help rebuild that relationship.
Sadly, Christians do quarrel, but we should seek to "live peaceably" with all (Rom. 12:18). Unless our conflicts are resolved, the Christian witness so painstakingly built up can be destroyed. It takes much effort to reconcile broken relationships, but it is worth it. Like a new building rising from the ruins, reconciled believers can emerge stronger.
May we seek to build each other up through our words and actions today! ----- ODB/CPH
May our "One Desire" be to live with the Lord and to be his witnesses on this earth until He returns.
Thank you Russ, Laura, and Herb Allure! You are being His vessels of honor for His glory, and your good! God Bless You!
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." [John 14:6]
