Today’s Reading: Philippians 2:12-13 ESV
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.
More About Philippians 2:12-13
Written by Micah Maddox (First 5 Ministries)
In this passage, Paul is expressing his message from prison. He’s urged the church at Philippi to take a long, hard look at the example of Jesus to see how Jesus’ obedience on the cross was both a saving and a teaching moment. (Philippians 2:8)
Not only did Jesus walk the ultimate path of humility by hanging on a cross, but His walking this road was in obedience to the Father.
There are two keys we find about Jesus’ obedience and the obedience Paul talks about in Philippians 2:13:
- Obedience is God’s will. “For it is God who works in you, both to will…”
- Obedience is God’s work. “…and to work for his good pleasure.”
This takes the pressure off to produce obedience. Rather than production it’s about a personal relationship with God. When we focus on the Father, we are enabled to work out of our faith.
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, Thank You for beginning and completing Your work in my heart and life. Sometimes I forget to simply obey and surrender my way to Your way. Thank You for reminding me to serve You out of the depth of Your power and not my own. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Journal Prompt: In what ways have you tried to work for God rather than work from God’s power in your life? In what specific way does today’s teaching encourage you?
