Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.
Philippians 1:27
There are some verses in the Bible that are simple to hear and understand, but take a lifetime to master. They provide direction and counsel every single time we read them.
Philippians 1:27 is one of those verses for me.
Within it, there are two short phrases that should change everything about how we live.
First: “Whatever happens…“
Notice the phrase: Whatever happens. In other words, no matter what is going on around us, there is direction to be found here that we need to live out.
This instruction is not just for when things go well. Not just when life is smooth. Not just when the trials of life have long been in the rearview mirror.
But also in the hard days. In the dark days. In the days when we don’t understand what God is doing. In the days when we’re right in the middle of the mess.
“Whatever happens…
Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.”
If Christ has rescued you from sin, live like it.
If Christ has given you hope and a future, live like it.
If Christ has called you to holiness, live like it.
If Christ has loved you, love others.
If Christ has anointed you as His ambassador, tell somebody about Him.
This is our calling and direction every day.
So whatever happens today—good, bad, or confusing—may we conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel. And whatever happens tomorrow, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of your calling.
And may I do the same.
Prayer
Jesus, whatever happens today, help me live in a way that honors you. Not for my glory, but for yours. Amen.