Day 31

“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 the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.” Phil. 1:27-28

Paul speaks specifically about integrity in verses 27 and 28. Some may argue it’s easier to be good, faithful, law-abiding, and helpful when in the company of others. Whereas, if you find yourself alone in the same situations, you may act differently, take a shortcut, bend the truth or look the other way!

Whether your mom claims she has eyes on the back of her head, or you grew up in a small town like me (where people reported back my whereabouts before I could make it home) — someone is always watching!

Instead of potentially being paranoid or frustrated by this reality, I propose we rest in comfort knowing that our Lord is watching our every move, is cheering us on from afar, and “has our back.” This thought then becomes comforting, providing us strength to stand up to opposition and do the right thing — whether or not anyone is there to see!

Dear God, 

You are right. Sometimes I am frightened by those who are different from me and want to sway me away from Your will. Help me to be strong and follow Your will in every situation I’m faced with,  whether I feel Your spirit with me or not.

Help me to remain eternally pleasing to You and not be tempted by earthly matters. For Your strength I pray. Amen.

-Mel Dahm