Glow in the Dark

Topics: christian model

I. Model a gracious attitude

* Stop Your Whining!

1. Do all things without grumbling or disputing (Philippians 2:14).

2. Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved . . . Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction (1 Corinthians 10:6, 10, 11a).

II. Model above reproach actions

* Start Your Shining!

1. So that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15; see Daniel 12:3).

2. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. (Mt. 5:14- 16).

3. Holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain (Philippians 2:16; see Ezra 7:10).

III. Model joyful affection

* Share Your Joy

1. But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me (Philippians 2:17, 18).

2. For who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation? Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming? For you are our glory and joy (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).

Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, September 27th, 2026.

Life Group Flow and Discussion Questions

Glow in the Dark

An important Guideline of Life Groups: The practicality of these verses needs to be discussed and prayerfully applied. Ask your Group how each person can glow with the radiance of God's love without grumbling or complaining and shining His Joy.

Getting Started

1. Describe someone in your life who glows with a gracious attitude, godly character, and joyful affection.

2. How do you stay charged up or plugged into the divine source of light in this dark world? Discussing Truths:

1. Why do you think Paul targeted grumbling and disputing as primary things to avoid in working out one's salvation (Philippians 2:12-14)?

2. How do grumbling and disputing damage a Christian community and destroy its witness (Galatians 5:14, 15)?

3. Is there any hidden darkness in your heart that is creating hypocritical attitudes or actions (Psalm 19:12-14)?

4. Take time to discuss and reflect on the question: Do my actions point people to Christ, or do they shine the light on myself?

5. In what ways does a joyful, non-com 5. In what ways does a joyful, non-complaining attitude stand out in our "crooked and perverse generation"

6. How do you respond to gossiping and complaining people?

7. What does it take to "hold fast the word of life" as a brilliant glow of truth (2 Tim 2:15)?

Now What? Application:

1. Pray that you will be able to put a stop to grumbling and complaining by anchoring your attitude in Scriptural truth.

2. What specific steps will you take to cultivate a spirit of joy and rejoicing even in trying circumstances?