DAILY DEVOTION, March 13, 2022

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; ¹³ for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:12-13).

Salvation is a gift freely given to all who trust in Jesus. Once we receive salvation, we are to work for God with fear and trembling. Why fear and trembling? Because we do not always know what service to Christ will require of us. All the apostles except John were probably put to death by the Roman authorities. Living in obedience to Jesus is not always an easy task. Those who reject God and despise the Gospel will work against you. Jesus urges us to count the cost before jumping into the Christian life. Paul certainly knew that following Jesus was a costly business. However, don’t reject the faith because of the possible cost.

There is good news in verse 12. We do not work alone. God is also at work in us to accomplish His purpose. As we live by faith, God takes our imperfect efforts and causes them to work to achieve His will. He overcomes our fears as we obey Him even when obedience is painful. Always remember that God loves You and plans to shower His love upon you for all eternity. That reality should calm our fears.

Father, thank you for the many Christian martyrs who have given their lives because their love for You was greater than their fear of man. So help me also to be a faithful servant of Jesus whatever the cost. Thank You for the assurance that You are with me, working out Your purposes in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.