“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Philippians 2:12
October 7, 2024
Physically demanding work-outs have been touted as an important means of improving health and controlling excessive bodily weight issues. A typical gymnasium is filled with men and women pushing themselves through cardio and muscle strengthening work-outs. On the basis of the humility and obedience of Jesus Christ as our example, Christians have on-going responsibilities. Paramount among these is the necessity of making spiritual progress in the brief time we have on this earth. Coal and oil are in the ground. They must be brought out in order to make modern industrial life flourish. I must mine what is already mine. This is not a command to work “for” our salvation, but rather to give careful attention to what is necessary to overcome sin and do what is right and pleasing to God. The power of God makes this possible (“who is working in us,” 2:13). How is your life of working-out going?
H
“Thank you, Lord, for the effective work you do within me to make it possible to overcome my inadequacies and see you make me stronger in the faith.”