Shining as Lights in the World

12 Therefore, my beloved friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for God is the one at work in you, granting you the will and power to do so, according to his good pleasure.

14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life. Then I will have a reason to boast in the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 In the same way you also should be glad and rejoice with me.