That we might shine as lights in this world

…work out your own salvation with 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 disputing, 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. (Philippians 2:12-16)

Father, you have given us the gift of salvation. Just like you saved Joshua and the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, you have saved us from slavery to Satan’s kingdom.

Now like Joshua, we fall before you in worship and awe, saying, “What does my Lord want to say to his servant.” (Joshua 5:14)

Lord, we are your church, your people. Now work in us to will and to work for your good pleasure, to bring about your kingdom here in Japan. Help us to join in with what you’re doing today.

We live in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation.

Help us to shine like stars in in this world, not compromising your Word in any way as so many people in this world are doing.

Instead, help us to hold fast to it. Because it is your word that gives us and this world life.

Lord, let us, your church, be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish. Let our lives not be marked by grumbling and disputing among ourselves, but by your love.

And as the people around us see the love we have for each other, let them be drawn to you.

We pray for this nation. We pray for our loved ones. In Jesus’ name, amen.