Philippians 2:12 (NKJV) 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;
Yesterday’s devotional ended with the verse above.
This verse is one I have always found fascinating for the fact that it lays a “burden of proof” on the shoulders of believers regarding “working out their salvation” on an individual basis.
Because salvation is the gift of God, given by faith, not by works, how can we reconcile being told to work it out with fear and trembling?
Would “working it out” not tie it somehow to being saved by our works?
It may seem that way at first, but if we look more closely, we will see that it does not.
With that said, let us look more closely!
What did Paul mean when he said “work out your own salvation” with fear and trembling?
We know right away that he was not referring to gaining salvation by our good works. The scriptural evidence against that concept is far too great.
So, what did he mean?
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” refers specifically to the responsibility of each believer to make a purposeful, conscious effort to actively pursue obedience in the process of being transformed by the renewing of our minds in Christ.
God wants each of us to be transformed. He desires us to grow and mature as believers. Part of that maturing process is leaving our sinful ways behind and walking daily in holiness.
This is not salvation by works. It is obedience to God and His word. It is the process of learning to live lives of sanctification.
And, what about that “fear and trembling” part?
As children of the Most High, the God of heaven, it is both, healthy and wise, to reverently fear offending Him, and walk in a righteous awe and respect for Him.
What does the word of God say about this?
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).
No, we are not saved by works. Yes, we should “work out our own salvation” with fear and trembling.
Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie
Seven Seas Ministries
49 N Lamplighters Walk
Hampstead, NC 28443
401-439-3780
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