Let Your Love Abound - CONTINUE TO "BE FILLED WITH RIGHTEOUS FRUIT"

Paul prayed earnestly that the Philippians would "be filled with righteous fruit."  (Philippians 1:11)  No doubt this "righteous fruit" included their love for Jehovah and his people.  That would also include their speaking to others about their faith in Jesus  and their wonderful hope.  Philippians 2:15 uses another illustration, namely, "shining as illuminators in the world."   That is fitting because Jesus called his disciples "the light of the world."  (Matthew 5:14-16)  He also commanded his followers to "make disciples," and he said that they would "be witnesses . . . to the most distant part of the earth."  (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8)  We bear "righteous fruit" when we actively share in this most important work. 

No matter what out circumstances, we can shine as illuminators.  In some cases, what seems to be an obstacle to declaring the good news may turn out to be an opportunity for us to preach.  The apostle Paul, for example, was under house arrest in Rome when he wrote his letter to the Philippians.  But his chains did not hold him back from preaching to his captors and to his visitors. Paul reached zealously under these circumstances and this gave the brothers confidence and courage "to speak the word of God fearlessly." - Read PHILIPPIANS 1:12-14; 4:22. 

Many of our brothers and sisters have the opportunity to follow Paul's  courageous example.  They live in countries where they cannot preach openly or from door to door, so they find other ways to declare the good news.  (Matthew 10:16-20)  In one such country, a circuit overseer suggested that each publisher cover his own  preaching "territory" made up of relatives, neighbors, schoolmates, workmates, and acquaintances.  Within two years, the number of congregations in that circuit increased significantly.  We may not live in a country where we cannot preach openly. However, we can learn a valuable lesson from the example of our resourceful brothers and sisters:  Always look for ways to have a full share in  the ministry. confident that Jehovah  will give you the power you need to overcome any obstacle. - PHILIPPIANS 2:13.

At this momentous time, may we be determined to apply the inspired counsel  found in Paul's letter to the Philippines.  May we make sure of the more important things, be flawless, avoid stumbling others, and bear righteous fruit. Then we will abound in love and bring honor to our caring Father, Jehovah.

Next time: Those Who Listen to You "Will Be Saved

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