Working out what God has already done in the life of the believer.
- The phrase, “work out your salvation with fear and trembling,” has been quoted and misquoted in the church frequently. What does it mean to us as believers? We know that our salvation is not a product of anything we can work out, as it is through faith alone and given by God as a gift. Romans uses this same wording, “work out,” as producing. Paul tells us that sin “works out” death in our lives. The product of sin in us is death. Conversely, in 2 Corinthians, 5, God has prepared us (worked out) for living by faith. This phrase is not meant that we should work hard to earn salvation, but that our salvation should be allowed to produce in us the fruit of God’s grace, mercy and sanctification. We should be constantly aware of what our lives are producing: salvation or death.
- What has salvation produced in my daily life? How can I continue allowing the gospel to change me for the better?
For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. Ephesians 6:13
- God works in us to create a desire for good and also provides the power for us to fulfill his purposes. This flies in the face of our cultural idea that people are generally good. When given a choice, most people will choose what benefits themselves the most, not what is objectively good. This desire for goodness is a sign of the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. If we want to be more like Jesus, we should work to connect with Him frequently, imploring the Holy Spirit to change our hearts. White knuckling sin, does not work in the long term. True change can only come from the work of the gospel in us.
- Do I want what God wants? How can I know his heart for the world, and seek to fulfill God’s purpose for me?
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
- To be considered blameless and pure is a high bar. Paul doesn’t mince words here. If Christians are known for underhanded dealings, sin, anger, and sowing discontent, we will never shine like stars. If we do not look different from the world, we will blend in and no one will ever notice Christ in us. If we are constantly arguing over inconsequential things or complaining about the color of the carpet, we abdicate our roles as God’s ambassadors to a corrupt culture. We should be able to have differences of opinions and even arguments without tearing each other apart. People should see that we are different, because we are made different by the work of Jesus on the cross.
- Have I offended or harmed someone I need to ask forgiveness of? Am I holding on to anger or bitterness I need to let go?
“Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive.” – Colossians 3:12-13
Life Application: Does your life look like the world? If a stranger met you and got to know you, would they notice a difference from the other neighbors? Examine your daily life. If there are things that need to be confessed, go to the Lord. If you have harmed others, make amends. If you are hurting from unforgiveness, ask the Lord to help you show mercy like you have been shown.
For Prayer: Pray for federal workers who are dealing with scary situations with their jobs and future income.