Philippians 2:12-30 The Working Out

My commentary explained that the “working out” of our salvation uses a word that is illustrated by working out a math problem or working a mine to get as much valuable ore out of it as possible.  That sure helps me to understand it better.

Paul wants us to understand that for all Christians there is a power to receive (it’s there in us, but we have to receive it).  “God had a special purpose for each one to fulfill … His commands are His enablements.”

The Word of God is an important part of receiving that power, but we need to do three things, my commentary said:  Appreciate it, appropriate it (receive it), and apply it. “We have to trust God’s Word and act on it for God’s power to be released in our lives … God’s Word has the power of accomplishment in it, and faith releases that power.”  I remember going through this myself when I heard God say in Svir Stroi, Russia, that I was to adopt, and that Word instilled me with faith that allowed me to act on that Word and endure such trials to get to my sons!

It said God’s third tool He uses in the working out is suffering, and I’ve seen that many times as well.  Suffering is where our faith is built up.

“The Word of God, prayer, and suffering are the three tools that God uses in our lives.  Just as electricity must run through a conductor, so the Holy Spirit must work through the means God has provided.  As the Christian reads the Word and prays, he becomes more like Christ, and the more he becomes like Christ, the more the unsaved world opposes him.  This suffering drives the believer back to the Word and prayer, so that all three tools work together to provide the spiritual power he needs to glorify Christ.  If we are to have the submissive mind, and the joy that goes with it, we must recognize that there is a purpose to achive (God’s plan for our lives), a power to receive (the Holy Spirit), and a promise to believe.”

That promise is joy as a present reality – not something we’ll get someday in heaven.  And it comes through sacrifice and service.

Father, please remind me often of Your purposes for my life.  Cause me to seek out the power to accomplish that purpose through Your Holy Spirit, and give me often that joy You promise.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford