Blake Stevens - Philippians 2:12-13

Our Role - God's Role
Philippians 2:12-13 
 “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, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (ESV)

In this passage we are told that we must work out our salvation.  In the body muscles begin to atrophy after only two to three days at rest.  In fact, the average adult would completely atrophy in a little over two weeks on bed-rest with no movement.

Our faith is much like a muscle in that it too has to be exercised in order to keep it from wasting away.  We use our muscles daily to walk through a sinful fallen world that causes atrophy of faith.  If we were to neglect our faith while walking through this world we would soon become cold, and calloused or hardened.  Just as Jesus washed the disciples’ feet in John 3, symbolizing the need to come to Him daily for cleansing after walking through this fallen world, we must also allow Jesus to cleanse us daily in order to maintain and grow our faith.  For we know that Jesus is the founder and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).

The bible tells us in 2 Peter 1:3 that as we grow in our knowledge of God we will become partakers in His divine nature, giving us everything we need for life and godliness.  Isn’t it beautiful to know that God’s role in our life is to give us all we need to satisfy and please Him.  We simply have to know Him more and He will provide all.

Spend time today in prayer asking God to help you grow in your knowledge of Him.  Consider what you can start doing today to grow that knowledge and thereby receive the blessings of great faith.  Study God’s word at varying times in order to keep the study from becoming a simple routine.  Pray without ceasing and practice His presence.

Father God, I pray your blessing over all who hear your word and obey.  We come to you broken vessels with no more to offer than our obedience.  Please teach us to be more like you.  In the mighty name of our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Amen. 

Blake Stevens lives in Wilton & has been at Hope for about 4 years & serving where ever called.