How can we actively participate in the "good work" God began in us? Anchored in the Promise Philippians 1:6: “being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” • The “good work” began the moment God saved us (John 3:3; Ephesians 2:4-5). • The same Lord who saved us is personally committed to finishing His workmanship (Ephesians 2:10). • His perfection of us culminates “at the day of Christ,” when we stand complete and glorified (1 John 3:2). Seeing How God Works in Us God acts: • He regenerates (Titus 3:5). • He indwells by the Spirit (Romans 8:9). • He conforms us to Christ’s image (Romans 8:29). We respond: • We “work out” what He “works in” (Philippians 2:12-13). • We present our bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1-2). • We “keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25). Daily Practices That Join the Father’s Project 1. Draw near in prayer • Persistent communion keeps our hearts soft and responsive (Colossians 4:2). • Ask confidently—He delights to supply what He began (Matthew 7:7-11). 2. Feed on Scripture • The Word renews our minds and equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Let it dwell richly—read, meditate, memorize (Colossians 3:16). 3. Obey promptly • Jesus said love expresses itself in obedience (John 14:21). • Small, immediate acts of obedience train us for larger steps of faith (Luke 16:10). 4. Depend on the Spirit • “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). • Pray for the Spirit’s filling and yield when He convicts (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:16). 5. Cultivate holiness • Lay aside every hindrance and sin that entangles (Hebrews 12:1). • Replace old habits with Spirit-produced fruit (Galatians 5:22-23). 6. Serve the body of Christ • God assigns gifts “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Love becomes tangible when we wash feet and bear burdens (John 13:14; Galatians 6:2). 7. Share the gospel • We are Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Partnering in gospel advance was Paul’s context for Philippians 1:6. 8. Persevere with hope • Trials refine faith and showcase God’s sustaining grace (James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7). • “The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). Living Between Beginning and Completion • Remember: progress is certain because God Himself guarantees it. • Rejoice: every step forward is evidence of His hand. • Rest: the final outcome is secure; our part is daily, willing cooperation. Until the day of Christ Jesus, we lean into His power, trust His timing, and actively engage in the very work He delights to finish in us. |
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