Continue to Work Out Your Salvation

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed— not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence— continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling1

 

We are solely responsible for what we believe.  No matter who tells us something, we MUST validate the ideas and concepts within the word of God!2  3 If we do not know the word of God, we are like a ship without a rudder, the enemy will carry us off into captivity with his lies.4  5  We MUST desire God above all things, even above the very things of God!6  The kingdom of God does not consist of his things but of his right and authority to rule.7  8  9

Consider: If I don’t know the truth how can I recognize a lie?  By reading the account of Jesus’ temptation I learn that the enemy can be very subtle, slightly twisting and taking the truth out of context in an attempt to deceive.10 Jesus prevails because he is truth, the word made flesh.11  12 The word is a person, how can I know and have a relationship with Jesus and not know the word that became flesh?

Further Consideration: How important is the word of God in my life?  What role does it play?  If someone looked at my life what would they conclude?  Do I really believe hiding God’s word in my heart is essential?13  14

My Prayer: Lord, my failures are eclipsed by your blood and righteousness; I trust that you will complete the work that you have begun in me.15 I humble myself, have your way in me.  Please give me a delight in you and your word that awakens me to your call and the grace to whole heartedly respond in agreement with you! Amen.