Worthy Examples

Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. 14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 

The first half of this chapter is one of my favorite portions of scripture, describing the humility of Christ, which not only provided us the salvation we need; it also provides us an example to emulate.  But we often stop there, failing to follow up with the appropriate response we should have.  We should live lives of reverent obedience, joyful unity, sincere holiness, and persevering trust in God and His Word.  Paul goes on to give two examples of believers both he and they know fit that description: Timothy and Epaphroditus - men who had humbly served both him and the Ephesian church.  May we follow their example.