Philippians 2:12-13 - Great Works Through Our Salvation and His Assistance (Bible Journal)
"Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him (Philippians 2:12-13 NLT)."
Paul's words that God gave him to write bring me inspiration, especially considering that this Book of the Bible was written during Paul's imprisonment. Paul encourages us to put our full effort in, and he advises that this hard work should come as a result of accepting God's gift of the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus for our salvation. We may not need to earn this free gift from God, but truly accepting it does bring the expectation that we will emerge from our salvation as changed sons and daughters, which Paul tells us here. We are given the reassurance that God will work through us while we put in our efforts, which will help us accomplish what we've been called to do. It can be overwhelming to think about, but it excites me to consider that the hard work I put in now is not only going to receive the approval of God, but will also occur as a collaborative effort through our Heavenly Father thanks to His involvement by working out His purposes through us.
Lord, thank You for new insights through Your Word today. As I enter my last work day of the week, and also continue my ultimate calling of parenthood, please keep working through me and help me to not only improve in my work, but also reflect Your glory through it as one that has been rescued by You. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You, Amen.