“My beloved, even as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” -Philippians 2:12
We have to actively live out and manifest the inner salvation God has already provided, transforming our character and obeying Him with deep reverence which is “fear of the Lord.”
It’s important to note that this is not working for salvation but working on our obedience and building our character that cultivates the grace we have already received.
There are some key aspects of walking out our salvation I think we need to be aware of:
- Active Cooperation This involves partnering with God to apply scripture in our everyday lives and transforming our character to match Jesus’s.
- Obedience and Growth – Actively obeying God and growing in spiritual maturity.
- Fear and Trembling – We should approach this with profound respect, awe for God’s holiness, and a serious desire to avoid sinning against Him, rather than being in dread.
- Internal to External – Manifesting our inner faith through our outward actions that show the fruits of salvation
This is possible because God Himself is working in believers, providing a desire and the strength to follow His will.
“For it is God who works in you both to will and to work, for His good pleasure” -Philippians 2:13
The only thing God will not provide is our decision to do what He asks. This is a choice of the will that each one of us must make.
This is not working for salvation (earning it), but working out the salvation we already have. It is a partnership where God provides the desire and the power to act. This involves daily obedience and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our actions, resulting in a life that reflects God’s grace.
From Pity to Praise 