12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but 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 work for his good pleasure. (Philippians 2:12-13)
Your faith is a partnership, not a display of rugged individualism. These verses display this. Verse 12 rallies the saint to take hold of what they believe to show the world a better way. While verse 13 assures us that it is God who works within us to fulfill His work. This would seem as a contradiction if we did not know something key about the character of God. His movement is typically made within the confines of community. It seems of high spiritual importance for our Creator to partner and not simply mandate. Perhaps God works like a successful dating relationship. As we take steps toward them, they takes steps toward us and the result is a rich and thriving combination of humor and values (James 4:8).
As a trinity, God Himself is a community. Jesus was also part of an earthly community that did things toward His “good pleasure”. In this case, there is no mistaking where the power comes from. God is the one who equips us with the discipline needed to both “will and to work“. When our heart is hidden with our Lord, then we can trust our actions and intentions.
Today, surrender to His ways and let Him empower you with Godly discipline. He gives you all that you cannot give yourself. Draw near to His power.
Lord thank you for this blessed partnership. It is crazy to think you would give us as much freedom as you do. Give us the discipline needed to pursue you in passion and faith. May our lives be about your good pleasure.
Matt simon blog 