Shine Like Stars in the Universe

"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life- in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me."

~Philippians 14-18

I have read this verse often and when I have I have often focused on the "Do everything without complaining or arguing..." portion. I have never noticed the "...shine like stars in the universe" portion of the verse. How I so much long to be light so bright for my Lord that I shine like a star.

It seems to be a paradox if I might call it that- In this crooked and depraved generation the world tells us that we should be "stars"- never growing old, remaining young, beautiful- wear the right clothing, reveal all and hold nothing back. It is all about ME.

Yet, God tells us to treat our bodies as a Holy temple. Instead of us trying to be in the spotlight, we are to place Him in the spotlight, so that rather than others being drawn to ourselves, they are drawn to Him. It is all about GOD.

I dig deeper and I am reminded of something I learned not to long ago. Recently I heard someone speak about sacrificing yourself for the sake of serving the Lord. She explained that if we choose to offer ourselves as a sacrifice for the Kingdom of God, that we should not "bleed all over the place" while doing so. While shining like stars in order that we may glorify the King of Kings, we must do so without complaining or "bleeding"- so as not to draw attention to the "me", but instead to God.

I am so sorry Lord for the attention I have drawn through my "bleeding".

Father, please forgive me. Use me to further your Kingdom. Help me to shine like a star in the universe for a generation that is crooked and depraved.

Thank you for your patience. Thank you, Father, for your peace and encouragement. I rejoice in you, Lord God.

"Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long."

~Psalm 4-5