God at Work

Walking in faith, knowing He is at work in me.

A Reflection on Philippians 2:12-13 with insights from Immeasurably More

Many misunderstand Paul’s exhortation to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling,” interpreting it as a call to self-effort. But Paul isn’t suggesting that believers strive to maintain or earn their salvation. Instead, he is urging them to actively engage in the process of living out the reality of Christ in them—allowing God to express His life through them, even as they navigate life’s challenges.

Paul had once been a guiding presence for the Philippians, much like a driving instructor for a learner. But now, he reminds them that they have the indwelling presence of God—His Spirit is within them, leading them from the inside. They are not abandoned to figure things out alone, nor are they merely passive vessels waiting for divine intervention without any involvement of their will. Rather, the Christian life is a harmonious union: believers make choices and take steps of faith, all while trusting that it is ultimately God who is at work within them—both in their desires and their actions—to bring about His good pleasure.

Many struggle with believing this truth. They look at their own tendencies and conclude that their will is too stubborn for God to work through. But that is unbelief. God is not waiting for perfect conditions; He is already at work. He knows how to bring about His will in our lives. The call is to believe—to trust that He is both willing and doing His good work within us.

Personalized Journal Entry in the Holy Spirit’s Voice

I am at work in you. I am the One who gives you both the desire and the ability to walk in My ways. You do not labor alone, for it is not by your might nor by your power, but by My Spirit. You are My workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that I have already prepared for you to walk in. I have begun a good work in you, and I will bring it to completion.

When you acknowledge Me in all your ways, I direct your paths. When you yield your steps to Me, I establish them. As you abide in Me, My life flows through you, producing fruit that remains. Your old self was crucified with Christ, and the life you now live is not your own—it is My life within you. I am the One who strengthens you, the One who enables you, the One who upholds you. Do not lean on your own understanding; trust in Me, for I am working in you both to will and to do for My good pleasure.

(References: Philippians 2:13, Zechariah 4:6, Ephesians 2:10, Philippians 1:6, Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalm 37:23, John 15:5, Galatians 2:20)

Prayer

Father, I rest in the truth that You are always at work in me. I am not striving to make something of myself; I am simply yielding to the life of Christ within me. Thank You for shaping my desires, for directing my steps, and for accomplishing Your good purpose in my life. I refuse to give room to unbelief, knowing that You are fully capable of leading me, even when I do not fully understand the path ahead. You are both the author and the finisher of my faith, and I trust You to complete what You have begun in me. Amen.

Unsplash Image Suggestion

A sunrise over a quiet road, symbolizing the journey of faith, with light breaking through the trees.