The scripture text this evening is the second chapter of Philippines.

So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the

spirit, any affection and sympathy.

Complete my joy by being of the same mind,

having the same love, being in full accord,

and of one mind.

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant

than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Have this mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God did not

count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.

And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name so that at the name of Jesus

every knee should bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth and every tongue

confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God

the Father. 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.

For it is God who works in you, both to you, fear and trembling.

for it is God who works in you both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

Do all things without grumbling or questioning 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,

holding fast to the word of life

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