BASIC INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE LEAVING EARTH. Philippians 1:27.

Posted bySteven WalesPosted inBible is your OWNER'S MANUAL, Read the BibleTags:, , , , , , , , ,

Some say the word BIBLE stands for “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” The Bible has lots of instructions for those ready to hear them–“for those who have ears to hear.” And although some Old Testament rules (such as dietary restrictions) may not apply to our daily lives, that is not true for the instructions in the New Testament. We live under the New Covenant—and the New Testament was written specifically for us.

But who needs instructions?

Can’t we just focus on adventure stories and a few good worship songs? Maybe enjoy some poetry?

Why would anyone want instructions?

Another word for instructions is “advice.” We want advice when we realize we have a need. If you want to get better at something, or sharpen a skill of some sort, then you welcome instructions.

In spiritual matters, WHEN YOU WAKE UP AND SEE YOUR NEED, then you will be happy to discover that the answers are in the Bible—particularly in the epistles (letters) from Paul to various churches. Examples:

“Live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” Philippians 1:27. (Wow.)

“Do nothing out of rivalry or vanity, but with humility consider one another more important than yourselves. Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” Philippians 2:3-4.

“Do all things without grumbling or disputing, so that you may be blameless… shining like stars in the world” Philippians 2:14-15.

“Let your graciousness be known to everyone…. Do not worry about anything but pray with thankfulness” Philippians 4:5-6.

“Let your mind dwell on things that are true and excellent and pure” Philippians4:8.

“Set your mind on things above, not on things of earth” Colossians 3:2.

“Put away the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth. Do not lie to one another” Colossians 3:8-9.

“Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as unto God rather than men” Colossians 3:23.

Dear God, help us wake up and see our need for your amazing word! Wake us up! And give us a hunger for good instructions.

ΑΩ

Published by Steven Wales

Dad's Daily Devotional began as text messages to my family. I wanted my teenagers to know their father was reading the Bible. But they were at school by then. Initially, I sent them a favorite verse or an insight based on what I read each day. That grew into drafting a devotional readng which I would send them via text. I work as an attorney and an adjunct professor, and recently wrote a book called HOW TO MAKE A'S.

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