Whatever!

This morning I officially re-entered the reality of work and "normal" day to day activities after a week of vacation fun and sun in Florida.  Getting back into my routine proved a little challenging.  I felt unorganized, was running late, and couldn’t find a few items in my still packed suitcase.  It gave me a lot of room for thought as I was reminded of the verse I found in Philippians 1:27 that very morning in my personal devotional time:

Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.

Whatever happens ... you mean Lord, like not finding an item and feeling impatient,  an unexpected errand – and then the errand taking longer than originally anticipated; rush hour, an annoyed spouse, an unexpected flat tire and hubby has already left for work, kids to usher around town, or one of those longer meetings that presses into the next meeting, which impacts longer minutes recording and actions; or a virtual connection that doesn't work correctly and 30 people are waiting on you to complete steps so they can join a meeting; that presentation that is due and another one coming up soon; and those who you are supervising and I need to check on others working with you to create a cohesive and unified message.  You know – ONE of those days!!!!

Conduct yourself ... You mean, control myself God? Keep things in perspective?

In a manner worthy ... Behavior that in such a way that shows who I really am, what I really believe, what I really value of the gospel of Christ (and the Jesus Christ I am supposed to represent).  The side that is worthy of the Word and the God Whom we serve – deciding and choosing the spirit of peace, rather than the angry resentful side of conduct in the flesh that can happen and so easily beset me?

Philippians 1:27. . . What a powerful Scripture this has been to me in the past and just as new this morning in His mercies for me.  Just thinking about "whatever happens" helps to keep the “me flesh” in check, and reminds me to die to that self.  It occurred to me – that word "whatever," well, it really does mean "whatever."

Fulfill my joy Lord that I may be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord and of one mind with YOU.... in the whatever of this day!