August 2, 2026
Yielding to God’s Work
I believe that during childhood, we all likely behaved differently at some point when our parents were not present. In their presence, we felt bound by rules and authority, knowing that disobeying household rules would lead to consequences. It appears to be human nature to act differently when we are not being observed. For example, many of us slow down when we see a police car on the highway. Similarly, at work, we tend to be more attentive and productive when the boss is nearby. The presence of authority encourages us to improve, be more efficient, or act more safely.
Paul, in his epistle to the Philippian congregation, after articulating the attitude they should embody—namely, the attitude found in Christ—exhorted them to diligently strive to obey the Lord, just as they had done in his physical presence, but even more so in his absence (Phil. 2:12). When examining the New Testament scriptures, it becomes evident that Paul’s presence was significantly impactful. In certain instances, such as his letters to the Corinthians, he exemplified an authoritative presence; conversely, in the letters to the Thessalonians, he manifested a presence of comfort and encouragement. Paul possessed the ability to influence others merely through his presence, a fact he likely recognized. However, regarding the church in Philippi, he is absent, and he desires that they continue to fulfill the will of God notwithstanding his absence. Yet what does he want them to continue to do?
First, he urges them to keep obeying and to work out their salvation with respect and caution (Phil. 2:12). The concept of working something out is similar to kneading dough to make bread - mixing ingredients, folding, pushing, and stretching, allowing it to rise, then baking. It's a detailed, repetitive process guided by a recipe. The same applies to working out our salvation: our actions must be consistent, with close examination of our lives and adherence to the instructions given in the Scriptures. However, this should be done with fear and trembling—not as blind fear, but as cautious prudence. It means being earnest about doing what is right. Returning to the dough analogy, making bread isn’t easy, and if we don’t follow the recipe carefully, we risk ending up with something that doesn’t taste, look, or feel right. Similarly, in our Christian walk, we need to be diligent and cautious to do it correctly.
In addition, he encourages them to permit God to work within them during this process in his absence. He emphasizes that it is God who collaborates with us to act in accordance with his good purpose (Phil. 2:13). This highlights a key biblical principle: allowing God to shape us for His purpose. Our salvation process is not solely our own effort; we must also open ourselves to God's work in our lives. The primary way to do this is by listening to His will as revealed in the Scriptures. It's a call to surrender to His guidance and intentions for us. God will influence our lives only through this means.
So here is what Paul desires of them when he is not with them: to continue to obey the truth by working out their own salvation and to allow God to mold them as they walk with Him.
- Christian Joyner
Past Articles
The Exalted One 7/26/2026
The Right Mind To Have 7/19/2026
Always Wanting It Our Way 7/12/2026
Complete My Joy 7/5/2026
Boldness in Opposition 6/28/2026
Walking in a Worthy Manner 6/21/2026
Rejoicing in the Preaching of the Gospel 6/7/2026
Encouraging Boldness 5/31/2026
The Gospel In Unfavorable Circumstances 5/24/2026
Goodness From Knowledge 5/17/2026
God's Finished Work 5/10/2026
Our Identity 4/26/2026