Philippians 2:14 " Do all things without grumbling or disputing;"  As Jesus gives us encouragement, love, unity in the Spirit, affection, and compassion; as He provides the perfect example of worthy living; and as God works in us, transforming our desires and actions, conforming us to His will and purpose... we make a choice.  We trust and obey.. or we argue and doubt and rebel.  Paul urges us toward the former... do "all things".. whatever God desires, with an attitude like Christ's.  So "that you may 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," 

Remember that Paul prayed already that they/ we would have abounding love in real knowledge and all discernment... approving what is excellent "in order to be sincere and blameless.."  He wants our testimony to be irreproachable. He wants us "innocent" - simple and harmless.  He wants our lives to be above reproach.  Because we do live in a place filled with crookedness and perversity. We live in a world full of darkness. And we are called to be lights - luminaries.  If we allow ourselves to grumble and argue, to resist the will of God and the teaching of our Lord, our lights will diminish and go out. There have already been too many so-called believers who have brought reproach upon the gospel and upon our Lord. We must work out our salvation with fear and trembling, that we might not do likewise.

Verse 16 :  Paul has told us what NOT to do.  Here, Paul tells us the most vital thing that we must do; we must hold " fast the word of life.."  We must know and study and meditate and memorize and continually take in God's Word.  We must believe the Gospel and hold on to the Truth with all our might. The Word " is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." wrote the psalmist.  ( Psalm 119)  Those who walk in it, observe it, keep it, and treasure it.. are blessed, blameless, established, and unashamed.

Truth - God has given us everything we need to live the way that He wants us to live.  He has offered every possible resource and aid that we could possibly ask for - including His own Spirit. He has the best possible outcome planned for us... unspeakable joy! But, He leaves it up to us to receive what He has offered.

Father in heaven, I come to You with empty hands and a contrite heart.  I need You, how I need You.  Lord I want to live for You in a manner that is worthy of the Gospel. I want to trust and obey You and to hold on tightly to the Word until the coming of my Lord Jesus. Thank You for all that You have provided so that I have this hope in me. I love You and give You all my heart and soul and body.  In the precious Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.