Evaluate your Life

By Donovon Thomas, Contributor

TODAY WE continue our study of the book of Philippians. In our text, Phil. 2:12-18, the apostle charges his readers concerning the manner in which they are to live out the salvation obtained for them at such great cost by the Saviour.

Consistent in Obedience

"Wherefore," the apostle begins, linking the charge he is about to give with the example of Christ outlined in the earlier verses "not only in my presence, but much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (vs. 12). We all are aware of the tendency to try to perform to the best of our ability when under direct supervision, but to relax our efforts, in some cases even to stop working altogether, when left by ourselves. The apostle points out that this should not characterise the child of God. The effort should be consistently maintained. In this way we should work out our salvation. By saying this he does not suggest that by working faithfully we are securing our salvation. Eph. 2:8-9 and other passages state plainly that salvation comes to man as a gift, given freely by God, one which he is neither required to, nor indeed able to attain by any effort on his part. What then does he mean? While salvation is a free gift, it is also the entrance unto a path of obedience that requires real work on our part. The challenge is ours to obey as Christ did and so to walk on the path our heavenly Father has outlined and prepared for each of his children.

Empowered For Obedience

As we attempt to walk the path of obedience, we realise that in our own strength we can never accomplish what is required of us. We are assured, however, that we are not left alone. Our heavenly Father remains involved in the process. Along with the command, he also gives the power to carry it out. It is God who works within his child, enabling him to will and to do his good purpose.

Examples Through Obedience

One of the things that will require work, is ensuring that in our daily experiences we do not complain, murmur, grumble and argue. How often do we complain about the things we do not like, about the people in our church, about decisions we do not agree with, about the things that cause us discomfort? Israel, on the way to the promised land, did the same thing and displeased the Lord. This is not what he expects of those who would follow him. Instead in humility, obedience, trust and thanksgiving, our lives should be examples to those around us, through his grace shining out as stars before our generation (vs.15). The willingness of the Philippian Christians to live in this way would assure the apostle that his labours among them had not been in vain. For this, though it cost his life, he would willingly give them. Obedience would be cause for rejoicing, both for him and for them. So too for you and I.

Prayer

Father the timeless call tugs at our heartstrings today 'Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.' Please help us to live as he did, with a total commitment to humility, trust and obedience to your sovereign plan for our lives. Amen.

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