Working Out

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. - Philippians 2:12 NIV

The words "work out" may invoke immediate mental images of exercising at the gym, but it has a broader meaning. In our personal lives and our jobs, we encounter bumps that must be worked out to succeed. A result of working out something is growth, whether it's muscles or wisdom.

In today's verse, Paul encourages us to work out our salvation. We cannot stay forever in the same state of being spiritual babes; we must mature. As we work through trials and temptations we come to experience God in new ways, and our relationship deepens. With fear and trembling, awe and respect, we come to appreciate the immensity of God and the depths of his love for us.

God, we thank you for being with us as we work out our salvation, and we come before you now with humility and respect, for you are an awesome God. We have faith as we face trials and temptations, periods of doubt and uncertainty, you will give us courage and strength. We ask your blessings on us this day as we move on towards perfection. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen

Blessings,

Pastor Tim