Philippians 1:10-11

That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Paul’s loving words to his dear friends in Philippi are echoed by Christians everywhere. We want those whom we serve to understand what really matters in life—not how they look, not how they dress, not how popular they are. What really matters is their relationship with Jesus Christ and their continued growth in him.

We want them to live pure and blameless lives until Christ returns. Purity seems to be a rare commodity these days, judging from what we see on TV, in movies, and in magazines. Yet when we live in purity, we exhibit a character trait that is valuable.

Praying for this fruit is a prayer that requires perseverance. Let’s pray that we will always be filled with that fruit and the good things that Jesus produces in our lives through the presence of his Holy Spirit. Then our lives will bring much glory and praise to God.

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME:

• Through a relationship with me you can understand how to live a pure and blameless life.

• I receive glory and praise when fruit grows and ripens in your life.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

Lord, please help me and those for whom I am praying to grow spiritually and understand what really matters in life. I pray I not will chase after what doesn’t matter but instead will focus on my relationship with you and on growing to be more like you. Amen.