I read somewhere that out of all the letters Paul writes, Philippians is the happiest.

 And in a week of bitter arguments about the EU, the sad loss of Jo Cox and the devastating news of a toddler being taken and killed by an alligator, surely we need a bit of happiness??????

 "But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached.  And because of this I rejoice." Philippians 1:18

 Politics is a bit of an evil beast at times, examining and cross examining what people say and their motives.  Sometimes we can bring that worldly viewpoint and way of thinking into our churches.  We scrutinise every little thing others do and gossip and put people down.  I think here in this verse Paul says a huge resounding "NO!!!".

 You know what - even if other Christians have different styles to us or approaches to things, surely that is good?  We are all different and respond to different things.  Lets REJOICE that Christ is being preached and the good news proclaimed even if it isn't done perfectly or for the best reasons.  None of us are perfect you know!  Lets REJOICE and build each other up instead of entering into this political mindset.

 Yes it is amazing and awe inspiring to hear Christ preached with sincerity and love.  But even when it is preached out of selfish ambition, God can still use it to bring people to know him, which is great news for us (I am sure we can all be a bit selfish at times.....)

 I for one will be happy once this EU referendum week is over and the cards have been cast.  And whatever our country is like afterwards it doesn't change my mission to show and preach Christs love to others.  I will REJOICE to still be able to do that, whether we are in or out.
NEXT WEEK - During my week under canvas I thought it apt to investigate and meditate on the following verse, so do join me...

 "Enlarge the place of your tent,
stretch your tent curtains wide,
do not hold back;
lengthen your cords,
strengthen your stakes."  Isaiah 54:2

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