“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.
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.”
Philippians 2:12-18
Are you holding fast to the word of life this week? As I read these words once again and remember Paul’s experience it gives me perspective. When Paul writes that he is to be poured out as a drink offering, we can recount his great suffering and the fact that he did die for his faith.
I have to admit that many of the things I tend to grumble about are temporary and often distract me from living with hope as I ought to live. Or the working out of my salvation with fear and trembling. How does one work out one’s salvation with fear and trembling? Do we tremble over sin? In ourselves? In others?
Are we able to do all things without grumbling or disputing? Do we see joy in our redemption? Sunday night in Isaiah we focused on praising God. Giving God thanks and rejoicing in Him and speaking of Him and what He has done.
How much has my speech reflected the things of God in the last few days? The blessing is there are still a few more days to this week so that I can practice sharing the work of God. Working out my faith with fear and trembling. And striving to do everything without grumbling or disputing.
I choose to rejoice. May God give us the strength to press on for His glory.