All Things. Philippians 2:14. “Do all things without murmurings and disputings:” Murmurings and disputes can lead to bigger problems that divide God's people and hinder our public testimony. We should earnestly seek not to disappoint God with our attitude, actions, and words we speak to each other. A believer who thinks they are always right and expects everyone else to accept that can quickly kill joy and fellowship. Moral living and patience help keep peace in an assembly, allowing it to be a guiding light in the world.
A small light placed strategically is essential as it can guide us. One lighthouse on a headland is a better guide than the bright lights of a busy street. The lighthouse shows where to go, while the other lights only reveal where people are, not their destination. To be a light truly is our only relationship with the world. We are called to shine as lights among those around us: that the Father may be glorified [Mat.5:16]; that the Lord Jesus will be magnified [Phil.1:20]; that we may be hidden from view [Jn.3:30]; that sinners may be saved [Jer.33:8]; that life is not lived in vain [Phil.2:16].
An assembly is like a guiding star in the darkness for ships at sea. We are to be blameless, so no charge can be brought against us when we practice scripture. We are also to be harmless, without deceit, and with sincerity so that grace is visible among God's people. Grace and truth are two essential qualities of a New Testament assembly. When the Lord comes and we stand before the judgment seat of Christ, everything will be revealed in its true light. Perhaps even the motives behind an action or word will be examined in the light of the holiness of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Many "things" are connected to church life that need to be done, and when it comes to “Who does what,” some people fuss. Others jump right in with enthusiasm, while some leave everything to others. This can lead to disunity among us. Inside each of us, and within the church as a whole, is the “Spirit of Peace” to help us fulfill our responsibilities. He can take an empty cup and quickly fill it to guide us through each “thing” when we ask. The Spirit given to us has distributed gifts to meet the needs of the church. We all rely on each other to get the work done right. If I focus on my role in doing my “all things,” we can work together in a bright, happy, and fruitful unity.
The issue with murmurings is they start secretly and gradually grow from one or two to many, and soon, the entire congregation is buzzing with dissatisfaction. If those murmurings relate to you, they usually have spread throughout the church before reaching your notice. This results in what is called “disputing,” open arguments that often go unchecked. If ignored, they can openly influence all the believers and even cause division.
Come together in prayer and act with Christ-like humility; murmuring and disputing will soon fade away. The Spirit of Peace quickly heals any man-made breach, and He is eager to help us in “doing all things” for the glory of God. The congregation will soon rejoice when harmony is restored, unity returns, and the peace He provides returns with lasting and positive effects.
“O God of guidance and grace: I pray here today that there will not be this undercurrent of uneasiness in the assemblies of Thy people. When it arises, please give those who care for Thy people the wisdom to act in firm grace to bring about an effective witness. I pray in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”